1st XV Match Reports 2009/10

9th May'10: Derby 29 - 28 Matlock (Derbyshire 1st XV Cup Final played at Ashbourne RFC)

As the teams ran out at Ashbourne to conclude the season, both clubs could reflect on a satisfying season. Derby had regained the NLD Cup, last won 14 years ago, and finished 4th in the league. Matlock had been less successful, but had avoided relegation, having been in deep trouble at the turn of the year.

Derby had beaten Matlock 3 times during the season, but Matlock entered the game full of confidence after their fine end to the season.

It was Matlock who started well. Derby were offside from the kick off. Matlock drove forward and touched down in the corner after only 3 minutes. Matlock added a penalty 9 minutes later, to lead 8 – 0.

Lee Miller went to the sin bin after 20 minutes, before Derby got on the scoreboard, with a Paul Burrows penalty, after 34 minutes. Unfortunately, Matlock hit back immediately with a penalty of their own, before it was Tom Warren’s turn to see a yellow card and spend 10 minutes on the side line. A few well chosen words from coach Dickens were still clearly still ringing in the Derby players’ ears as a fine spell of play ended with the forwards driving Greg Bramhall over the line, 3 minutes into the half. A Paul Burrows conversion meant Matlock led 11 – 10. The next 8 minutes saw Matlock score 2 converted tries to lead 25 – 10.

Matlock lost a flanker to the sin bin after 63 minutes and Derby took advantage when Dan Sanderson galloped clear to score. The try prompted a forwards’ punching competition and when the dust settled, Derby winger, Ryan Manning was sent to the sin bin. Matt Down converted the try for Derby, but the game restarted with a Matlock penalty which was kicked to make the score 28 – 17 to Matlock. Matlock then lost a second back row forward to the sin bin, but with 3 minutes plus injury time left and Matlock still 11 clear; the game looked up for Derby.

Incredibly, this was not to be the case. With Matlock seemingly out on their feet, firstly Tom Warren crossed the line and as the game entered injury time, Ben Marlow forced his way over. Matt Down calmly slotted the conversion, to move Derby 1 point clear.

A nervous 5 minutes ensued, but Matlock did not really threaten before the final whistle blew. The victory sealed a cup double for Derby and gives them bragging rights in Derbyshire; for a while at least !

Roll on next season when, hopefully Derby can build on this and have another successful season.

Come on Derby !

Photograph Galleries - Photograph Gallery 1 and Photograph Gallery 2

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

25th Apr'10: Derby 18 - 12 Paviors (NLD Cup Final)

In an epic comeback from being 12 – 5 down with only 10 minutes left, the Paviors noble forward effort faltered and Derby sensed that from being on the back foot for a lot of the match, their moment was nigh. Paviors had drained themselves dry in front of a resolute Derby defence and in swiftly tiring began to make mistakes hanging onto their well-deserved lead.

“Defences win matches” said Derby Coach Alan Dickens after his team had snatched 13 points and the victory in the game’s dying moments. The countdown to lifting the NLD Cup for the first time since 1996, hinged on a poor penalty kick by Derby being knocked-on by Paviors. From the scrum Derby pummelled Paviors back over their goal-line for Dan Sanderson to score his second try of the match. Minutes later, Paviors manhandled the imperious Sanderson at a line-out and Paul Burrows stepped up to calmly convert the penalty and Derby were suddenly 13 – 12 with Paviors wondering how they had managed to surrender a seemingly secure lead.

Derby went for the kill, with Ben Marlow hunting down his opposite number intercepting the flighted pass and going to ground only yards from the line. The Derby support swiftly re-cycled the ball through Dave Fitchett for Mikey Robertson to dive into the corner and Derby had snatched victory from their unbelieving and distraught Nottinghamshire rivals 18 – 12. Earlier, Paviors had been the first of the two nervous sides to settle forcing errors from the jittery Derby backs and it was after such a mistake that Pavior’s stand-off, George Billam strolled through on first phase to leave Danney Graney a simple conversion after just 9 minutes of play. Derby did not panic and they eventually worked the ball through the backs to the forwards and looked to have scored through a buried Dan Sanderson, however, Paviors quickly recovered and counter-attacked to resume territorial advantage. The Derby supporters were now wondering if their team would later be left to rue this scoring opportunity, therefore it was vital that they should score before the break. This they duly did as Number 8 Dan Sanderson stretched through a melee to touchdown after good advantage played by the referee. Halftime: Derby 5 Paviors 7. The rain began to fall on Mapperley Plain as Derby struggled to get yardage out of their own back yard, Paviors just had to score and this they did as second row Ben Fawcett bundled over to extend his side’s lead after 15 minutes to 12 – 5. Paviors realised that one more score at this point would leave Derby with too much to do. But like the determined defenders at the gates of Moscow, Derby’s line held firm with the back-row of Sanderson, Miller and West mowing down everything that moved and with coach Dickens throwing on his reserves at the right moment, Derby looked fresh for combat. And so it was that Paviors burnt themselves out against the ramparts of black & orange jerseys that had turned the game on its head as the final whistle blew. Derby victorious, 18 – 12 winners.

Captain Phil Robinson is held aloft and below the Derby team celebrate their NLD Cup win

Match Report and Photographs within the report by Paul Richardson

Additional Derby v Paviors match photographs can be viewed here

 

10th Apr'10: Wellingborough 21 - 36 Derby

On a beautiful balmy afternoon, Derby dominated from the kick-off scoring 19 points within 9 minutes whilst dismantling the destined to be relegated Wellingborough’s sleepy defence almost at will.

Prop Tom Warren, after stirling work by Parkin and Wilson, burst through tepid tackles to open Derby’s account with just 2 minutes on the clock. From the returned kick-off, dangerous Dan Sanderson set up winger Ryan Manning who cleverly chipped infield down the slope for Ben Marlow to race through, collect and score. Matt Down converted to make it a rapid 12 – 0 to the rampart visitors.

Pete Vickers, Wellingborough’s outstanding captain and play-maker, punished an errant Derby with a 25 yard penalty, however, Derby immediately hit back with a Ryan Manning try after Mickey Robertson’s bull-dozing run, Down again converting.

Derby now took their foot off the pedal and the now alert Wellingborough backs seized gifted opportunities to score a brace of quick tries through feisty winger Fitzhugh, the first of which was converted by the Vickers gun from the touchline to bring them back into the match at 15 – 19.

Mikey Robertson then produced a text-book American Grid-Iron quarterback one-handed throw out to Louis Gandalfo his unfazed wide-receiver for a touchdown in the corner. “Forward!” screamed the stunned home support but the referee’s arm was up. Derby now lapsed into lethargy once again allowing Vickers to notch two further penalties before the whistle ended the half with Derby 24 – 21 in front. Wellingborough had managed to cling onto Derby’s shirt-tails and as one supporter remarked “The referee kept us in the game a treat!”

Both sides contrived to conjure up mistakes by the hatful and Robertson and Sanderson were each frustratingly denied inches from the line. Derby had seemingly ditched the pattern of ‘drive, present, drive again and present...’ with no little greed supplanting unit cohesion, until, that is, on 33 minutes, when they finally put the pieces back together again as the frisky foal, Matt Down, engineered an opening for the enthusiastic Warren to score on 33 minutes. Warren completed his hat-trick courtesy of pressure from the pack and Down sealed the victory with a simple conversion cementing the 36 – 21 outcome. At this, the Wellingborough crowd went very quiet and the referee officiated the closing few minutes much better without the touchline advice.

Wellingborough had the spirit, but Derby had the class.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

27th Mar'10: Derby 21 - 19 Syston

What a game ! After the disappointment of the defeat at Stewarts & Lloyds, Derby bounced back to beat 2nd place Syston. The promotion challenge may be all but over, but on this form, Derby can certainly be fancied to mount a strong challenge next season.

Derby lost Dave Goodman in the warm up, with Adam Wilson stepping up from the bench to replace him.

An even start to the game saw 3 points each, Paul Burrows for Derby and Warren Coles for Syston.

Syston then lost their hooker to the sin bin, but Derby didn’t really take advantage, only adding a second Paul Burrows penalty.

Derby were building pressure however and eventually this told. Dan Sanderson took another fine line out, the ball went to the backs and Mikey Robertson broke through tackles to crash over for his 16th try of the season.

The half time break saw the Derby supporters in a confident mood and the talk was of a fine victory against a good Syston side.

7 minutes after half time all that talk had evaporated. Coles kicked a penalty and then Charlie Allen crossed for a try, which Coles converted.

Derby could not get going and further penalties from Coles on 57 and 68 minutes stretched the lead to 8 points. Syston looked to have the game won, but Derby finally roused themselves and Matt Down narrowed the gap with a penalty. 8 minutes left.

Syston then lost their second player of the day to the sin bin. 4 minutes left.

Derby kicked the penalty to touch, won the line out and the forwards drove over the try line with Tom Warren touching down in the corner. 2 minutes left. Scores level.

Matt Down stepped up and nailed a magnificent touchline conversion to give Derby the lead. 1 minute left.

Surely all Derby had to do was secure the kick off and kill the game. Oh no ! Penalty to Syston. Quick tap, Derby not 10. Penalty to Syston, 10 metres nearer. Time up!

Coles lined up the kick. He had kicked beautifully all day. But not this time. The kick drifts wide of the posts and Derby have won a pulsating victory !
The home league season is over and Derby have only lost once at Haslams.

Wellingborough away completes the campaign before the NLD cup final against Paviors at Mellish on 25th April. The only team to beat Derby at home ? Paviors !

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

20th Mar'10: Stewarts & Lloyds 16 - 05 Derby

Prior to the teams taking the field, a Derby supporter overheard the following finishing off of the Stewarts & Lloyd captain’s team talk “...Derby are a flash team, let’s go out there and rough them up for the first twenty minutes... and then the game is theirs!” Spoken like the true leader of an Easter touring side. In fact, they looked like a touring side and in many respects, played like one, and came off the field surprised and happy they had won.

Derby could have played for 200 minutes and not won, not with a referee with a mantra of “If it moves, blow up” which suited the home side’s game plan very well. Derby increasingly fretted about the stop-start whistle and sidelined their very own game plan. Whatever that was.

Things began badly with Lee Miller leaving the field after only minutes with a visit to the local A & E to investigate his grogginess after a collision. As the many arbitrary technical decisions took the home side slowly but surely up the slope, a resulting Greg Cook penalty put S&L into a 3 – 0 lead just before the break. A further Cook penalty after the re-start doubled both the lead and Derby’s frustration. But after dallying for 10 minutes Derby at last put a cohesive move together with Louis Gandalfo shaking off repeated defenders to put Mikey Robertson over to score. The conversion kick came out off the post. 6 – 5 but Derby seemingly back in it. However, another confident Cook penalty and S&L stretched 9 – 5 ahead. The body-language now said “Hey! Could we actually win this?!” Yep. The Derby backs were now forcing the chase and were punished as Kevin Macintyre intercepted and raced away down the hill to score under the posts with Cook converting. 16 – 5. The whistle went (yet again) and they had beaten a good side that had crushed league-leaders Scunthorpe only the week before.

Derby need to ask themselves: How is it that they struggle to dominate relegation zone teams, whilst their top of the table peers (whom they often humble) notch-up cricket scores against the same? Answers to me please on a five pound note.

The club need to remember: Derby are a young side that have come an awfully long way in a short period of time. It is not so long ago that they themselves were basement fodder and to be now challenging for honours in both NLD Cup and League is something to be proud of. Bounce back boys!

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

17th Mar'10: Derby 21 - 14 Newark (NLD Cup semi-Final)

Derby’s last defeat had been a drubbing handed out away at Newark in the league. Tonight, at home in the semi-final of the Notts, Lincs & Derby’s Cup, this was a different Derby with a significantly positive mind-set. Within minutes they had signalled their intent with a magical move the length of the pitch with full-back Nathan Burton stopped only feet from the line. Derby deservedly scored from the ensuing scrum as Dan Sanderson picked up to initiate the move that led to Ben Marlowe scoring easily under the posts. Barton converted and Derby were 7 – 0 ahead.

Newark are masters at retaining the ball and when they do kick for touch, they find it. The latter, if anything, is a Derby weakness at times and Newark’s counter-attacking wingers, Budda and Eveleigh, were looking to be their night’s provider of points. And so it proved, with Jamie Eveleigh slotting a penalty quickly followed by a try and conversion when trapping Derby on their line after a missed penalty kick. Newark had their lead albeit by just a single point at 7 – 8. On 25 minutes Derby regained the lead in fine style. Keeping the ball in hand, Derby shuttled it across to the right wing where Marlowe gleefully thumped the ball down to claim his second try of the evening. 12 – 8 to Derby who now looked full of tries and indeed, the outstanding Mikey Robertson was unlucky to lose the ball with the line at his mercy.

Yet another penalty against Derby which Eveleigh kicked and it was anybody’s match at 12 – 11 to the home side. Derby responded with another flowing breakout and skipper Phil Robinson looked to have scored in the corner only for the game to be called back to halfway... where Derby were awarded a penalty for a high-tackle. So, no ‘advantage’ then? Another crossfield move saw Burton coming onto the crash ball, as Newark clearly did and with an audible call of “Smash him!” He was, and minutes later left the field to be replaced by Louis Gandalfo.

Newark’s game plan was to run if there was even just a glimmer of space. This came unstuck as Lee Miller, Derby’s fast improving openside, closed down on the emerging threat by enveloping man and ball and duly getting trampled on for his labours. Paul Burrows kicked the penalty and Derby went into halftime 15 – 11.

The instances of linked-up, free-flowing rugby were becoming more of a rarity and it was going to take a moment of individual brilliance, or silliness, to move the game on. After a ping – ponging of penalty awards, Eveleigh’s 3 points on 15 minutes of the second-half closed the game up to 15 – 14.

On 27 minutes after super solo efforts by Gandalfo and Robertson, a Burrows penalty opened the gap to 18 – 14. It has to be said that for every penalty Newark gave away, Derby conceded twice as many as they hung on to their lead. Newark were now taking the line-out option where Dan Sanderson and Greg Bramhall took them more than once to the cleaners, much to the delight of the vocal home supporters. Derby do make mistakes but lifted by the crowd they deliver at times moments of pure delight. Crunching tackles were now thwarting Newark and another Lee Miller counter-attack containment added to their woes as on 33 minutes Burrows kicked Derby into a 21 – 14 lead. In a game as tight as this, Derby knew they were now just far enough in front to maintain the gap to the finish.

Newark are a fine team and for Derby to better them as they did, is a massive confidence boost both going into the NLD final and the climax of the Midlands One East season. They also enjoyed the enthusiastic support of a large and boisterous crowd who gathered to cheer their heroes off the pitch after a hard-won victory.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

13th Mar'10: Derby 21 - 03 Scunthorpe

Magnificent ! What a game and what a result. Derby were simply too good for league leaders Scunthorpe and boosted their playoff hopes with this splendid victory.

Derby gave a debut to Ed Perry in the back row, while Tom Good replaced Ryan Manning on the wing. The rest of the side were unchanged again.

Scunthorpe arrived with an impressive record; only 2 defeats in the league all season.

Derby had an early chance to get on the scoreboard, but Matt Down pushed his long range penalty just wide.

Derby were starting to exert some control, but it took until the 23rd minute before they broke through. Simon Long showed good strength moving forwards, before Matt Down sent the backs away with a lovely pass; Ben Marlow touched down in the corner. Matt Down added an impressive conversion.

Scunthorpe replied with 10 minutes remaining with a penalty from Woollard.

7 – 3 proved to be the half time score, with both sides contributing to a fiercely competitive contest.

Scunthorpe started the second half in the ascendency, but all they had to show for it was a missed drop goal attempt.

Derby moved up field and started to threaten the Scunthorpe line. The Derby forwards created the space and a 2 man overlap was lost when the last Scunthorpe defender desperately knocked on. 2 minutes later, another overlap saw Darren Hersey clear only to be stopped by a high tackle just short of the line. The referee had no hesitation and ran under the posts, awarding a penalty try. Once the ensuing brawl had finished, Matt Down converted, to leave Derby 11 points clear, with 23 minutes left.

Scunthorpe did not take this lying down and their backs had 2 clear chances to score, but excellent defence from Derby ensured that their line was not breeched.

Derby finished the game on the attack and confirmed the win with an excellent try. The forwards again won the ball and sucked in the Scunthorpe defence. The ball went down the line. An excellent pick up and pass from Tom Good kept the move going, allowing Darren Hersey to touch down in the corner for his 8th try of the season. Another excellent conversion completed the scoring.

The entire Derby team were outstanding, but special mention must go to Dan Sanderson, Matt Down and Mikey Robertson who controlled their areas superbly.

NLD cup semi final, under the lights, on Wednesday before a trip to Corby and Stewart & Lloyds. Then the potential 2nd place decider, at home to Syston on 27th March.

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

6th Mar'10: Paviors 15 - 22 Derby

A classic game of two halves and indeed, of two back rows. Up until the break, Paviors ruthlessly ruled the loose play roost with Ollie Collingham, their outstanding openside flanker always to the fore. He proved to be a thorn in the Derby defence throughout the game and it was only the second half emergence of his Derby counterpart, Lee Miller, ably backed by Number 8 Dan Sanderson, that turned the game on its head with what had been a indolent first half for Derby into a riveting and clinical four try second half fight back. By halftime, Paviors were comfortably 10 – 0 ahead with Collingham’s hard-worked try converted by Danny Grainy who had earlier put over a deserved penalty kick. Cue many dark faces from Derby supporters.

Whilst Paviors strolled off to their dressing room, Derby stayed on the pitch in a tight circle. The halftime talk from coach Paul McCartin was thus: “Don’t listen to their players. Don’t listen to their crowd. Play your own game. Pick up the tempo. Keep the ball in hand. Run them off the park.”

And from the restart this was the united response: No more aimless kicking, put quick ball through the hands and go. 22 fast and furious minutes and 22 unanswered pulsating points. From the off, openside Lee Miller initiated the breakout that finished with winger Dan Hersey in at the corner. Six minutes later saw top try scorer Mikey Robertson shrug off attempted tackles to score through the middle with standoff Down converting. After thirteen minutes Hersey again made a touchdown in the corner followed by Ben Marlow on twenty two minutes with the Paviors defence now in tatters.

Paviors were stunned. At halftime Derby were crestfallen, down and out and experiencing a dismal déjà vu ala Newark three weeks ago - yet here they were right up on their toes and now thoroughly bullying the game. Pavior’s man of the match Collingham refused to take this lying down and scored again wide out but everyone in the ground knew the game was up.

Then did Derby listen to their supporters as they left the pitch.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson
 

27th Feb'10: Leighton Buzzard 00 - 27 Derby

After an adventurous journey to Wrights Meadow; an exploding tyre in the outside lane of the M1 always concentrates the mind, your correspondent arrived at the same time as the rain – just in time for kick off.

Derby had the advantage of a considerable slope in the first half, having stuck with the team who played so well against Old Northamptonians.

Derby started well in extremely difficult conditions. The puddles formed as the rain beat down incessantly. The pitch was actually in remarkable condition, certainly compared with the pitches on either side !

Derby stole some early Leighton Buzzard line out ball, as well as looking stronger in the scrum.

It took 16 minutes for the first score to arrive, when Mikey Robertson picked up a loose ball and touched down.

The second try, just before half time was very similar. This time Simon Long picked up the loose ball and slid in.

In between these two tries, both sides attempted to use a ball which resembled a bar of soap, leading to a rash of drops and knock-ons.
Derby began the second half, knowing that one more try would probably be enough, given the conditions.

That duly arrived 4 minutes into the half, when Lee Miller scored his first try for the club. On a horrible day for kicking, Matt Down did well to convert.

Derby continued to dominate, but found the ball slipping from their grasp at regular intervals. Leighton Buzzard encountered similar problems and a number of phases ended with the referee indicating that both sides had knocked on.

Good pressure from Tom Warren trapped Leighton Buzzard in their own dead ball area. Unfortunately, Tom Warren slid on, into the watching trio of Muir, Wilson and Bambra, splashing mud all over Paul Wilson’s best jeans ! Dan Sanderson picked up from the resulting 5 metre scrum and scored; the wet and muddy trio forgave Tom !

On the final whistle, Mikey Robertson released Ben Marlow, who scored in the corner, completing the victory.

Not a pretty game, but a well earned win and a solid performance. Have I mentioned the awful conditions ?

Paviors next, as Derby keep up the chase for 2nd spot and a play off opportunity.

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra
 

20th Feb'10: Derby 17 - 07 Old Northamptonians

Games between Derby and Old Northamptonians are always tight. In 2007/08, Derby won by 2 points and then 3 points. Last season the clubs were in different leagues. In Northampton, in October, Old Northamptonians won by 7, scoring a converted try with the last play of the game ! What would today bring ?

Derby gave debuts to fly half Matt Downs and second row Greg Bramhall, as they looked to bounce back from last week’s disappointing performance against Newark.
Derby kicked off, on a pitch that was sticky. This meant that a player changing direction risked losing his footing.

Derby started well, but spurned at least 2 early chances, before a Mikey Robertson break allowed Louis Gandalfo to score under the posts. Matt Downs added the conversion and Derby were 7 clear after 14 minutes.

7 minutes later Louis Gandalfo scored again. Good play by both forwards and backs gave Louis the chance to sprint clear, the remaining defenders buying the dummy, allowing the touchdown.

Derby were in complete control at this stage. The forwards were winning good ball, including Old Northamptonians line outs.

Rose missed a penalty for Old Northamptonians, following a rare break into Derby territory.

The last 10 minutes of the half saw Derby camped in the Old Northamptonians 22, but they were unable to turn this into points. On the stroke of half time, Old Northamptonians lost Civil to the sin bin.

During the break, the concern among the watching faithful was that Derby may regret not making more of their dominance.

Derby were unable to make the extra man count, but scored a crucial 3rd try after 54 minutes. A clearing kick, near the Old Northamptonians line was charged down and Tom Warren reacted quickest to touch the loose ball down for a try.

With 18 minutes remaining, Louis Gandalfo was sent for a 10 minute rest in the sin bin. Old Northamptonians took advantage of this, with Number 8 Howes scoring a try, converted by Rose.

This proved to be the final score of the game. Old Northamptonians finished with 14 men. Influential Number 8., Howes going off with a serious looking injury and all replacements having been used. The final whistle saw Derby claim an excellent victory over a side who had won their previous 7 games, including the top 2 in the league, Scunthorpe and Syston.

A good team performance sets Derby up for the remaining 6 league games, as they chase the play off spot.

Come on Derby!

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra
 

13th Feb'10: Newark 17 - 03 Derby

Carpe diem. But when it comes, it fades away, roll on the day. To be blunt, Newark were not very good on the day. To be direct, Derby were very poor on the day. To be honest, the players know this and as do those who witnessed their efforts on the day.

Derby started the day brightly with the forwards fairly hammering Newark onto the back foot but were crucially unable to turn this promising beginning into tangible reward and Newark sniffed that this could indeed be their day. And so it proved. A succession of penalties allowed Newark within range and on 12 minutes Newark when 3 – 0 ahead with a kick in off an upright. Five minutes later Derby’s Dan Sanderson was handed a yellow card and Newark capitalised with a fine breakaway try by his opposite number, Daley Edwards. The conversion took Newark into halftime 10 – 0 to the better.

The second half began with the Derby backs storming out of defence with rapid, direct running from Louis Gandalfo supported by Mikey Robertson and from territory gained Tom Good was able to slot an easy 3 points from a resulting penalty. As in the first half, Derby then fell away, losing composure as they flirted with danger within their own 22. Newark could not believe their luck as in the 8th minute Derby gifted them the softest try they’ll score in many a long day. Newark’s Will Naylor grounded the loose ball and with the conversion, Newark led 17 – 3.

Forwards Dave Goodman and Adam Wilson worked hard to get some forward momentum going but their efforts were in vain as a clear overlap was ignored in the backline. Derby’s only other real opportunity was squandered with an offside when attempting to run a well-placed penalty climaxed a day of unforced errors. Newark were more savvy on the ground and in the ground their crowd got behind them. Next week, Derby face in-form Old Northamptonians at home and will need the home crowd just as much if not more, supporting them on the day. Roll on the day.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

6th Feb'10: Derby 34 - 13 Ilkeston

Derby welcomed back Andy Gates from injury. Simon Long, Eldon Atherton and Dave Fitchett also returned to the starting XV.

Ilkeston made the brighter start and they were rewarded when fly half Thompson dropped a goal on 3 minutes. Derby kicked off for the second time in quick succession. Ilkeston secured the ball, broke up field, recycled and centre, Cook, touched down for a try. The conversion was added and Derby were 10 points down after 5 minutes.

A Paul Burrows penalty narrowed the gap, after 13 minutes, but Ilkeston quickly hit back with a penalty of their own.

Derby finally took the game to Ilkeston and were rewarded with a try after 19 minutes. A series of forward drives sucked in the Ilkeston defence, allowing Paul Burrows to release Ben Marlow to touch down. Paul Burrows converted and after a breathtaking first 20 minutes, Ilkeston led 13 – 10.

Derby were beginning to assert their authority and took the lead 4 minutes before half time. Dan Sanderson claimed the lineout, the forwards drove over the Ilkeston line and Dave Goodman emerged with the ball to claim the try.

Ilkeston lost a player to the sin bin just before half time.

Derby led 15 – 13 at the break and needed to keep pressing if they were going to win the game.
12 minutes after the break, a poor Ilkeston clearing kick found Darren Hersey. He passed to Ben Marlow, who in turn released Dan Sanderson, who galloped over from 20 metres. The Paul Burrows conversion meant Derby were 9 points clear.

The crucial, next score for Derby arrived after 65 minutes. A carbon copy of the try just before the interval again saw Dave Goodman score after a forward drive.

Derby put the icing on the cake when Ben Marlow broke through the defence to score his second try of the day. Paul Burrows completed the scoring with the conversion.

Derby finished the game with 14 men; Dave Goodman, unable to resist the ball and being sent to the sin bin.

Ilkeston worked hard throughout, but Derby are on a good run at the moment; this being the 8th win in succession.

As well as a league win, this game also saw Derby progress in the Derbyshire Cup !

As the spectators took their places for the England v Wales game the clubhouse was buzzing !

A trip to Newark next week is followed by the visit of Old Northamptonians. Derby need to keep this run going to remain in the promotion hunt.

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

30th Jan'10: Derby 22 - 05 Matlock

A cold, bright day greeted the teams as they ran out at Haslams. Lee Miller made his debut in the back row for Derby.

Derby had struggled to perform against relegation threatened Market Bosworth last week. The pattern continued against relegation threatened Matlock this week.

Derby started well; an early Tom Good break almost led to a try. After 7 minutes Derby did take the lead. The line out ball was cleanly taken and the forwards drove over the line allowing Owen West to touch down.

10 minutes later hesitancy in the Derby defence allowed Matlock an attacking chance, which they took when centre, Dan Hooton scored.

With both conversions missed, 5 – 5 proved to be the half time score.

Matlock had played with great spirit, but Derby had not performed well. Ball was turned over or kicked aimlessly away, rather than keeping the ball in hand and going through the phases.

This pattern continued into the second half. As the game continued, Derby were gradually taking control, but excellent Matlock tackling, kept the scores level.

Mikey Robertson almost scored in the corner, but put a foot in touch and only a cruel bounce of the ball prevented Dan Sanderson gathering and scoring.

The try finally arrived. Derby were awarded a 5m scrum. Dan Sanderson, who had switched to Number 8. burst off the back and showed great strength to touch down. Paul Burrows converted.
2 minutes later it got even better for Derby. Excellent inter-passing between Ben Marlow and Darren Hersey carved open the Matlock defence and allowed Darren Hersey to score.

Derby completed the scoring with 5 minutes remaining. Another line out catch was driven forward and winger Darren Hersey sprinted clear, round the blind side to complete his double.

The final score reflected Derby’s improved showing in the second half and made it 4 wins in a row over their county rivals.

Next week, the county theme continues when Ilkeston travel to Haslams, for the rearranged game, postponed before Christmas.

One suspects Derby will have to play better than they have over the last 2 weeks to keep the winning run going!

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

23rd Jan'10: Market Bosworth 03 - 17 Derby

An ugly win is still a win and the Derby forwards did just enough in the last quarter of a dour match to take the points thus avoiding what could have been a potential slip-up on a banana skin of a pitch for 3rd-in-the-table Derby.

In their last match, Market Bosworth had given high-flying Syston a good game and it was easy to see why. They are a young side with good spirit and with a half-time score of 3 – 3, Derby had reason to be concerned. However, Bosworth’s lack of forward strength to convert position into points against Derby’s determined defence, they were never likely to breach the line.

In fact, the best part of Derby’s game was their defending. In attack, the backs as a whole had an off day of it with no positive leading of the line and indeed both of Derby’s tries came from the efforts of the forwards. Derby began brightly enough with promising moves only to break down through handling errors, yes, but surely a score would come? And so it did, but not with a try as a Burrows penalty kicked Derby into a 3 – 0 lead, yet with full-back Gandalfo making things happen at pace, prospects of building from these beginnings, looked promising.

Not so. From here to the interval, Derby kicked carelessly and passed poorly with nobody backing themselves to play rugby and times even caught taking the ball standing still. “Go through the phases!” became the cry from the frustrated onlookers, but alas, it was the home side that ended the half the stronger with a penalty by Peake and a yellow card for Derby’s Fitchett.

Half-time 3 – 3.

A heavy pitch requires hard graft from forwards and slowly but surely the Derby eight began to crank up their labour rate and plough purposefully through the furrows. Market Bosworth now struggled to contain them and after a period of duly moving through well directed phases, hooker Wilcox burrowed over the line. Burrows converted and on 18 minutes Derby led 10 – 3.

Derby had woken up.

On 26 minutes a Bosworth front row player found himself in a tight spot and his attempted clearance kick was charged down by the swift reaction of second-row Goodman who somehow managed to keep his balance and pounce for the score. Burrows did the business with a flat torpedoed conversion kick from a difficult angle to bring the score to a healthy 17 – 3.

With seven minutes remaining, second row Sanderson, who had been Derby’s driving force of the afternoon failed to hear the breakdown whistle and was rightly sin-binned for a late tackle. No matter, the game was up and Derby had pinned Bosworth well onto the back foot at the end.

19 penalties in the game... 12 against Derby, plus a spectator ‘sent to the clubhouse’ for over-zealous banter aimed at the referee.

It was that kind of a dark, dank day exuding frustration on every front. But remember, not a million miles away from this boggy field, lies another, where back in local history – that Welsh and always offside flanker, the victorious Own Tudor, might well have said “A win is a win is a win.”

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

16th Jan'10: Derby 22 - 05 Mansfield

After the enforced 1 month break, Derby returned to playing rugby at Haslams. The pitch proved to be in excellent condition; all snow and ice had melted. Were Derby ready to take on NLD rivals Mansfield ? Indoor training had been done, but it was a long time without actually playing rugby.

The game could not have started any better for Derby. Only 2 minutes had gone, when Ryan Manning scooped up a loose ball, 40 metres from the Mansfield try line. He advanced, chipped over the oncoming defenders and won the race to touch the ball down. Paul Burrows added the conversion and Derby were 7 points clear. Derby continued to press forward and after 15 minutes Mansfield lost prop Simmons to the sin bin. Derby did not take advantage during the 10 minutes. Poor ball control at key moments cost the chance of a further score.

In fact, it was Mansfield who should have scored, but a penalty kick drifted wide.

With 7 minutes left in the half, Derby needed another score to reflect the pressure they had exerted. Then Mansfield lost the ball. Owen West picked up, made ground and transferred the ball to Dave Goodman. He galloped 25 metres to score in the corner – his first try of the season.

Mansfield missed with another kick at goal, before Paul Burrows ended the scoring for the half with a penalty.

Derby led 15 – 0 at the break and had been in charge for most of the half.

The second half turned into a battle of attrition. Both sides competed keenly, with several “who can punch hardest” competitions, breaking out. Mansfield lost a replacement to the sin bin, 1 minute after entering the game ! Again Derby were unable to take advantage of the extra man.

With 12 minutes left on the clock, Mansfield back row forward Joe Simcox, collapsed behind the posts in his own in goal area. A long delay ensued, while an ambulance was summoned and he departed for hospital. All at Derby RFC wish Joe well, and were delighted to hear that he was going to be discharged from hospital the same evening.

After this, the game continued, without the ferocity evident previously. From the re-start the Derby pack drove forward and Tom Warren peeled off the back to touch down. Paul Burrows added the 2 points.

Mansfield gained a consolation score, when scrum half Adam Shaw crossed the try line.

The final score reflected the domination Derby had in a game they deserved to win, against opponents who didn’t take a backward step.

A trip to struggling Market Bosworth next week gives Derby the chance to consolidate 3rd place in the league.

Come on Derby.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

12th Dec'09: Dunstablians 03 - 10 Derby

Derby travelled to Dunstable, well Houghton Regis actually, for the first game in the second half of the season. Dunstablians were in good spirits after their victory over league leaders Scunthorpe. Derby had just beaten 2nd placed Syston, so something had to give !

Elliot Spencer had not travelled, so Darren Hersey replaced him on the wing. A bitterly cold day greeted the teams. Derby kicked off, with the breeze and slope in their favour. After 8 minutes, Derby had a chance to go ahead, but a Paul Burrows penalty from half way just missed. Derby were dominant at this stage, but lacked the clinical precision that has characterised their play so far this season. Derby continued to press, camping in the Dunstablains 22, but unable to make pressure tell. Finally, after 32 minutes, good runs from Ryan Manning and Tom Warren, enabled Derby to spin the ball down the line, where Darren Hersey touched down in the corner. 5 – 0 was the half time score; had Derby done enough when the conditions were in their favour ?

The second half began with Dunstablians pressing forward. Fly half Murphy missed a chance to cut the deficit after 47 minutes when he missed a penalty. Dunstablians continued to attack and gained a penalty advantage. As the referee said “advantage over” Dunstablians lost the ball. Quick as a flash, Mikey Robertson pounced on the loose ball. He fed Ryan Manning, who sprinted 60 metres to touch down, for his 5th try of the season, with 29 minutes left.

Dunstablians continued to attack and spent the majority of the remaining time in the Derby 22.

A penalty from Murphy cut the gap, but despite opportunities Dunstablians were unable to score again. This was due, to a large extent, to superb Derby defence and tackling. The final whistle saw Derby complete their first “double” of the season. This was not a classic performance; grit and determination saw Derby home.

The Dunstablians groundsman was probably the happiest person; the whole game had been played in 1 half of the pitch; Derby attacked for the first half, Dunstablians had their turn in the second half, leaving the other half of the pitch unused !

Ilkeston next, before the Christmas break, then Ilkeston in The Derbyshire Cup.

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

5th Dec'09: Syston 14 - 18 Derby

Derby produced perhaps their best 40 minutes rugby of the season in the first half against 2nd place Syston, tearing into the opposition from the start. Intense pressure from the forwards led to a penalty which Paul Burrows converted from around 40 metres after 6 minutes. The game continued in the same vein with Burrows adding a second penalty after 12 minutes.

Derby's dominance continued with the forwards again imposing themselves on Syston. From a line out the Derby pack drove the ensuing maul forwards with Dave Fitchett secure at the back able to score the try. The conversion from Burrows narrowly missed. Derby had other scoring opportunities in the first half but had two tries disallowed due to forward passes.

Just before half time a Derby infringement lead to a yellow card for Fitchett and a penalty which Syston converted to leave the half time score 11 - 3.

It was important for Derby to get off to a good start in the second half, now playing up the slight slope, but unfortunately some sloppy play at the kick off gave away a penalty which Syston kicked to the corner. Syston took the line out and drove forward to score and make the score 11 - 8 and their confidence was up. Two more penalties from Syston took them into the lead at 14 - 11, but Derby were not prepared to let their excellent first half count for nothing. As they took the game back to Syston an excellent backs move allowed Tom Good to burst into the line and side step the Syston full back to score under the posts. The score with the conversion was now 18 - 14 to Derby with 10 minutes left.

Inevitably Syston pushed back into Derby territory but determined Derby defence kept them at bay. As the game continued in near darkness there was a mixture of relief and elation from players and supporters at the final whistle. This win keeps them in the promotion hunt with two more important games to come in the next fortnight.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield
 

28th Nov'09: Derby 31 - 10 Stewarts & Lloyds

A dry but cold day greeted the teams as Derby kicked off this Midland 1 East clash. Jon Heggie and Pete Wilcox were both unavailable, so Derby had Sam Hobbs making his first start of the season at hooker while Adam Glover came in in the back row. Otherwise the same team as last week took to the park. Derby dominated initially, forcing Stewarts and Lloyds onto the back foot, particularly in the set scrums.

A Simon Long carry, created the first score after 8 minutes. When the ball was recycled, quick hands in the backs allowed Ben Marlow to touch down. Paul Burrows added the conversion. 7 minutes later a searing run from Louis Gandalfo took him away from the defence and over the line for a try. Stewarts & Lloyds got on the scoreboard with a penalty, from Jones, after 21 minutes. Derby completed the scoring for the half with 5 minutes left. The pack drove Stewarts & Lloyds back over their own line from a 5 metre scrum, allowing Number 8, Dan Sanderson, to touch down. Paul Burrows kicked the conversion to leave the half time score 19 – 3 to Derby.

6 minutes into the second half, Simon Long was dispatched to the sin bin, but Stewarts & Lloyds were unable to make the man advantage count. In fact it was Derby who scored next. Good interplay by Mikey Robertson and Tom Good resulted in Tom Good sprinting clear and touching down in the corner, after 61 minutes. Almost immediately, Derby presented Stewarts & Lloyds with a try. Stewarts & Lloyds’ fly half intercepted a Derby pass and trotted in, unopposed, under the posts. Cooke added the conversion. Dan Sanderson became the second Derby player to have an enforced 10 minute rest in the sin bin.

Derby spent the rest of the game in control and Mikey Robertson applied the coup de grace with his 12th try of the season. Paul Burrows kicked a good conversion and the final whistle saw Derby comfortable victors. Stewarts & Lloyds battled hard, but the feeling remained that Derby could have won by a bigger margin – things didn’t quite click and they never seemed to get out of 3rd gear !

The 8th win of the season sets Derby up nicely for the trip to 2nd place Syston. They warmed up by scoring 70 points against Wellingborough !

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

21st Nov'09: Matlock 00 - 18 Derby

Derby travelled to Cromford Meadows for the second time this season. They already had a hard fought victory, in the league, 16 – 13, under their belts. Today was about making progress in the NLD Cup!

Tom Warren dropped out of the selected squad for the day; Simon Long played as prop, with Martin Dodds joining the bench.

The forecast rain arrived bang on time; kick off time ! The rain fell throughout the game, making skilful back play all but impossible; both sides elected to keep it in the forwards and kick for position.

Derby took an early lead with a Paul Burrows penalty after 2 minutes. 9 minutes later the same event doubled the lead. At this stage, Derby were on top and looking to take charge.

This didn’t happen. Matlock had a chance to half the deficit but missed with a penalty of their own, after 18 minutes.

Matlock now took charge and forced Derby to defend, deep in their own 22, for the rest of the half. Derby tackled well but did not look after the ball carefully enough in the appalling conditions, allowing Matlock to keep pressing. Fortunately, from the Derby perspective, Matlock didn’t really look like crossing the Derby line and half time arrived with Derby still 6 – 0 ahead.

The second half saw a complete turnaround. For years, Derby have struggled to cope with the Matlock forwards; not today.

The Derby pack were magnificent. They drove Matlock back time and again.

Eventually, with 56 minutes gone, they were rewarded for their efforts. A forward drive ended with a burst over the line, from Simon Long.

Derby went for the kill and 7 minutes later, from an attacking scrum, Adam Glover drove off the back and over the line.

Paul Burrows converted and Derby were 18 points clear.

Derby comfortably saw the game out, giving all 4 replacements a run in the process.

After defeat in the final of this competition, could Derby go 1 step better and bring the cup to Haslams to the first time and to Derby for the first time since 1996 ?
Time will tell, but this was an impressive performance against a team that has caused Derby many problems in the past.

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

14th Nov'09: Scunthorpe 23 - 22 Derby

With the M1 closed a route via Lincoln lengthened the journey to Scunthorpe unfortunately Eldon Atherton was not as lucky grinding to a halt near Chesterfield and not making kick off, forcing very late changes with Adam Wilson coming onto the bench and Dave Goodman starting. Derby enjoy playing at Heslam park and saw this as a real opportunity to bounce back after the disappointment of the previous weeks.

Scunthorpe chose to play with the slope and gale force wind at their backs but it was Derby who started like a whirlwind. From the kick off it was all Derby, Adam Glover and then Ryan Manning both charged through the Scunthorpe defence only for the final passes to go astray when arguably it looked easier to score, further pressure saw a missed penalty attempt from Paul Burrows, deja vu; would these missed opportunities come back to haunt Derby?

Scunthorpe weathered the early storm coming into the game; with influencial forwards Sidebottom and Garbutt orchestrating good forward drives around the fringes and with the backs showing increasing willingness to move the ball wide it needed good defence from Gandalfo, Manning and Hersey; a task the Derby defence was to stand up to all game. A long kick down field at last gave the Scunthorpe forwards an opportunity to exert some pressure in the Derby 22. A transgression at a driving maul allowed fly half Mark Woollard to kick Scunthorpe ahead; this was to be a developing pattern as Scunthorpe used the conditions to push Derby deep into their own half to allow the impressive boot of Woollard to slot another two successful penalty kicks but fortunately for Derby miss a further kick from the halfway line.

Derby sustaining heavy pressure defended relatively comfortably, eventually forcing their way back into Scunthorpe territory thanks to hard yards by the pack, typified by strong runs by Parkins, Goodman, Glover and a bit of trickery from Gandalfo. A harsh yellow card on the stroke of halftime for the hard working Dave Goodman allowed Scunthorpe field position from where another successful Woollard kick made the half time score Scunthorpe 12-0 Derby, with the wind dropping could Derby get back into the game?

The first exchanges of the second half answered that question, Derby dominated possession. A good move saw Darren Hersey break the Scunthorpe defence and after the forwards recycled possession the ball transferred along the backline for opposite winger Ryan Manning to go over in the corner, Burrows narrowly missing a difficult conversion. Woollard converted two penalties, Burrows replied for Derby to take the score to 18-8 as neither side could fully establish control.

On the hour mark the game sparked into life as Dan Sanderson became the recipient of second yellow card for Derby. Using the man advantage the Scunthorpe forwards created the opening for scrum half Mclean to skip through some uncharacteristically weak Derby tacking to make the score 23-8.

Hagan, Wilson and Good now replaced Long, Glover and Manning as Derby looked for inspiration. Adam Wilson seemed to inspire the forwards as he and the rest of the Derby pack took the game to Scunthorpe, pinning them into their 22. Scunthorpe had a man sent to sin bin and the return of Sanderson now gave Derby the man advantage, which sparked a dramatic last 10 mins.

From relentless forward drives Sanderson broke loose and fed Wilson who powered through a mass of Scunthorpe players to score during which a clash of heads between two Scunthorpe players resulted in a long stoppage for what turned out to be two very serious injuries, both players needing prolonged medical treatment. Due to the nature of the injuries play had to be switched to another pitch, we wish both players a speedy recovery.

Burrows added the conversion to give Derby a glimmer of hope at 23-15. In fading light and Scunthorpe visibly rattled Derby pounded away at the Scunthorpe line, Mikey Robertson with a touch of individual magic danced over with Burrows converting. Scunthorpe were now on the ropes, entering injury time Derby regained possession and pushed for the winning score, frantic but admirable defence by the 14 men of Scunthorpe saw Derby run out of time as the final whistle pierced the gathering gloom.

Derby outscored the league leaders 3 tries to 1, Mark Woollard's goal kicking may have been the difference between the teams? Scunthorpe on balance deservedly retained their 100% record; but by the smallest of margins leaving Derby to reflect on another opportunity missed.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul McCartin

 

7th Nov'09: Derby 08 - 11 Paviors

Derby kicked off, on a perfect day for playing rugby. Both sides had plenty to play for, with Derby 3rd in the table and Paviors 4th. It was Derby who struck first, when Andy Gates kicked a penalty after 2 minutes. Paviors hit back and pressed forward for the next 10 minutes, without creating any clear cut chances. The rest of the half belonged to Derby, with wave after wave of attacks. Unfortunately, the chances were butchered ! Poor passing, poor catching or wrong options taken, contrived to keep the score at 3 – 0.

Finally, with the half drawing to a close, quick ball and good hands released Darren Hersey who touched down in the corner. The conversion was missed. Derby still had the opportunity to stretch their lead with 2 more kicks at goal, but didn’t manage to kick either of them.

Half time saw the score 8 – 0 in Derby’s favour. They had dominated; would they pay for their profligacy ?

Andy Gates was withdrawn, injured, at the break and Tom Good came on for his first appearance of the season. Paviors missed a kickable penalty after 4 minutes of the second half. Paviors were gradually taking control, but on a rare Derby break, the Referee sent the Paviors number 7, Wright to the sin bin.

The next ten minutes defined the match. Derby missed the kick at goal, before Graney narrowed the gap, with a penalty for Paviors. Paviors then struck with a try, while still playing with a man less, creating space out wide for Number 8 Wilmott to juggle and then touch the ball down. With the scores now tied Paviors continued to press and with 2 minutes left created the chance for Graney to drop a goal.

Derby raised themselves and attacked for the first time for some considerable time. They declined a kick at goal, but created an overlap, but, the pass was delayed and the chance was gone.

The game ended with Dan Sanderson stretching for the Paviors line, but coming up just short. The Paviors delight on the final whistle was clear to see. They had played well, but Derby had certainly contributed to their own downfall; this was a game Derby could and should have won. It doesn’t get any easier for Derby, with a trip to league leaders Scunthorpe next week.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

31st Oct'09: Old Northamptonians 27 - 20 Derby

Derby travelled to Northampton in buoyant mood, despite the loss of influential prop Adam Parkins. Sam Johnston failed a fitness test in the warm up, so Dave Fitchett returned to the side. Games against Old Northamptonians have been tight historically, with Derby tending to do just enough.

Derby kicked off, playing down the slope. Both sides missed with early kicks at goal, before Paul Burrows put Derby ahead with a penalty after 15 minutes.

Derby were exerting pressure at this stage and 6 minutes later, Andy Gates gathered a loose ball and was driven over the Old Northamptonians try line. Paul Burrows converted.

Derby continued to press and Louis Gandalfo made ground with an excellent run.

Old Northamptonians cut the lead with a penalty, before the crucial moment of the half. Derby were awarded a penalty in front of the Old Northamptonians’ posts. A 13 – 3 half time lead looked likely. Derby reacted to the opposition. The penalty was reversed. Old Northamptonians swept up the hill for Street to score and Rose convert. The actual half time score was 10 – 10.

Derby had a tough task, playing uphill in the second half. They also lost Andy Gates and Tom Chubb to injury.

12 minutes into the second half, Old Northamptonians lost a player to the sin bin. Derby exploited this advantage and replacement Mikey Robertson showed his strength to force his way over the try line. Paul Burrows added the conversion.

Tom Warren then incurred the referee’s displeasure and was dispatched to the sin bin. Old Northamptonians also took advantage of playing against 14 men, Kevan touching down and Rose converting, to tie the scores once more.

Burrows and Rose traded penalties as the game drew to a close.

With the clock ticking, Derby were awarded a kickable penalty. The chance was not taken and crucially, the ball did not go dead. Old Northamptonians regrouped and created a gap on the blind side. Away they sprinted and Hayden touched down. Rose converted and the final whistle blew.

In fairness, perhaps Old Northamptonians deserved to win a tight game, particularly given previous games between the sides, but Derby did not help themselves. Discipline is hurting them and they need to leave the referee to make the decisions – he is always right !

Paviors, victors over Syston today, arrive at Haslams next Saturday; 3rd against 4th.

Derby have shown they have the ability, let’s hope they concentrate on the rugby!

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

24th Oct'09: Derby 20 - 12 Newark

There is sunshine after rain and so it timely proved as the sun broke announcing the arrival of the players onto the pitch at Haslam’s Lane. So, Derby kicked off with the autumninal sun in their faces which was reflected in their bright beginning. After only 2 minutes Dan Sanderson purloined a Newark torpedoed line-out throw on the halfway line. The ball sped along the Derby backs with fullback Elliott Spencer arriving at pace to take the pass at pace to set winger Ryan Manning free who scooted around the outside defence to score 10 yards in, the wind preventing conversion.

Alan Dickens, Derby coach, rates Newark as probably the best ‘rugby’ playing side in the division and from the pitchside one could hear their captain exhorting his players to “Keep the ball alive!” On 15 minutes, the home side ably demonstrated just how to do it with Spencer again making sense of what was in front of him, and after making yards on the blindside and seeing the avenue of progression closing, he switched play to the open where the support lay. Newark, however, were in good defensive shape and so the Derby’s forwards now tunnelled through the middle to release winger Louis Gandolfo who found Spencer on the tight outside. Newark successfully scrambled the fullback into touch a mere foot or so from their line but it was clear that the speed of Derby’s play had unsettled them. A kick on the hip forced the influential Sanderson to retire to the sidelines to be replaced by Dave Goodman who soon made his mark by ripping the ball at the very next Newark lineout.

Newark Goal: Keep the ball away from the Derby backs. By 25 minutes, Newark had put together a string of ala Rugby League drives with their big forwards making repeated short yardage, going to ground, driving again, going to ground - until Derby were forced to err some 15 yards out. Newark’s usually reliable kicker Keville had already missed with a earlier penalty and now he badly screwed this second chance horribly wide.

On 32 minutes Derby doubled their lead as captain Phil Robinson running backwards like a fielder in a cricket outfield calmly caught a Newark slog over his shoulder to spin and initiate the move leading to Manning scoring out wide. Newark reverted to game plan and again their forwards forced a penalty on 36 minutes. They ignored a simple 3 points and kicked for touch. Thence followed a classic catch, drive and touch down for a deserved try with Keville putting over a fine kick to convert Cove’s score. Halftime: Derby 10 – Newark 7, game on.

A terrible restart and 20 minutes thereafter saw Derby being drawn into Newark’s strategy of keep it tight and away from Derby’s backline. A suddenly lack lustre Derby conceded an easy try by Pick on 2 minutes but the wind willed the conversion attempt wide off a post leaving Newark 12 – 10 in front. The referee now distributed 4 yellow cards evenly between the teams with Derby’s Burrows kicking Derby back into the lead 13 – 12 off the last of these gifts. Derby had growingly crept back into the game and on 38 minutes Adam Gates unlocked the Newark defence for substitute Dan Hersey to score. Burrows converted and at the final whistle only a forward pass prevented further glory.

Newark will be concerned at how they faded away at the end. Derby will be pleased about how they made this so.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

17th Oct'09: Matlock 13 - 16 Derby

A frustrating afternoon for both sides with 28 penalties being conceded with amazingly, an even 14 penalties apiece against both sides. Add to this the frequent, frantic unforced errors by these local rivals, left a somewhat frustrated set of respective supporters.

There was much on the line for both outfits, Derby needed to beat their continual Cromford Meadows jinx and Matlock were looking to bounce back to winning ways and climb away from the lower, dark depths of the league table. Derby coach, Alan Dickens had a pragmatic point of view of the Derby victory. “If the way to win away means playing ugly, then ugly it is, grind out the result, that’s what matters, and that is what we did.”

It was Derby who got into their stride first with Burrows initiating an excellent, positive passage of play. Burrows changed direction and found a good touch where the Derby forwards easily stole the Matlock ball. The pack drove forward and on 7 minutes Burrows completed the sequence by converting an ensuing penalty.

Matlock quickly rallied, proceeded down slope and were rewarded with a penalty of their own, kicked by scrumhalf Young. From this point, the play became untidy with the whistle seeming to dominating this tight encounter. Burrows now missed a couple of long range penalties before soundly smacking a third over from 35 yards out to give Derby back the lead. Matlock’s eight was sin-binned moments later on 33 minutes, and Derby exploited his absence with hard work by Adam Parkins allowing Dave Fitchett time to score in the corner.

When it was easier for Derby to score, Matlock intercepted with odds on indeed to score themselves. Derby skipper, Phil Robinson, timely tracked back to haul down the Matlock runner and redeem his own mistake. Now it was Derby in control and the half finished with hooker Pete Wilcox held up over the line by fine defence. A try here would have surely killed off the game in favour of the Black & Amber.

Matlock had other ideas and now produced their best of the day, up quickly on the flat Derby backs, and looking for channels to run through when in posession. Not a good re-start then for Derby, especially as top try scorer, Mikey Robertson now limped off and their kicking game somewhat faltered. Worse was to follow as without a warning, no pack-drill, Matlock were awarded a penalty try from a not that threatening, crabbing Matlock scrummage.

10 minutes into the half, Young kicked Matlock 13 – 11 into the lead and Derby could have been forgiven for thinking “Oh no, not again!” But this team wanted the result and rallied with Louis Gandalfo, the pick of the Derby backs, suddenly seared through the Matlock ranks only to stumble when in sight of the line. However, he scrambled enough to keep the ball alive long enough for substitute and debutant flanker, Sam Johnson, to breach that elusive white line and carpe diem that Derby just about deserved. Final score: Matlock 13 – Derby 16.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson

 

10th Oct'09: Derby 64 - 03 Market Bosworth

A dry, bright day greeted the teams as they ran out. Derby were looking to extend their unbeaten home record, while Market Bosworth were hoping to win for the first time this season.

It was Market Bosworth who took the lead, after only 2 minutes with a Brightmore penalty. Derby had a lot of possession but a combination of poor passing and catching were holding them back. After 19 minutes Louis Gandalfo received the ball and sprinted round the last defender to score. 10 minutes later, Mikey Robertson showed impressive strength, holding off the defence as he touched down. Andy Gates was the next to cross, using a number of dummy passes to create the space. Paul Burrows converted all 3 tries, the first 2 being particularly good kicks. Market Bosworth pressed as the half drew to a close, but excellent Derby defence kept them out.

The second half began with a yellow card for the Market Bosworth flanker, Morfill. 8 minutes into the half, Andy Gates made an excellent break and timed his pass perfectly, for Dave Fitchett to sprint clear and score. Paul Burrows converted. The man advantage did not last long, with Pete Wilcox dispatched to the sin bin after 11 minutes. 3 more tries followed in quick succession. Firstly, Ben Marlow dropped on a loose ball, over the try line. Good work from the forwards then allowed Mikey Robertson to cross, before Dan Sanderson galloped in from 25 metres. Paul Burrows converted 1 of these and Derby were out of sight at 45 – 3.

A mass brawl erupted after 65 minutes and red cards were shown to Derby prop, Tom Warren and a Market Bosworth coach. Despite being a man down for the rest of the game, Derby were still dominant and scored 3 more tries. Mikey Robertson completed his hat trick before Elliott Spencer touched down twice in quick succession. 2 Ryan Manning conversions completed the scoring.

This was a superb performance, marred only by the red card and a serious looking injury to captain, Richie Robinson. Market Bosworth could not cope with the pace and power of the Derby team, despite their willingness to keep going. 5 wins from 6 games; the same number of wins Derby managed all last season !

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

3rd Oct'09: Mansfield 06 - 12 Derby

Last time Derby played at Eakring Road, they were on the wrong end of a 41 – 3 thrashing. It is a mark of the improvement this season that the travelling support felt that Derby had a chance of victory this time.

Pete Wilcox and Eldon Atherton were unavailable, but Owen West returned while Kieron Hagen came in for his first start.

Mansfield kicked off playing down the slope, with a strong wind blowing straight across the pitch.

I would be kinder, dear reader, to draw a veil over the first half. Suffice to say there was very little rugby played!

Mansfield fly half, Shaw, kicked 2 penalties and missed 2 penalties. Phil Robinson received a yellow card for the Derby team, persistently offending. However the wind and bone hard pitch were the winners of the half.

6 – 0 down at half time and with both teams struggling to assert themselves, the Derby supporters could sense that the game was there for the taking; no doubt the Mansfield supporters felt the same however !

Derby lost Owen West early in the second half; the returning Tom Chubb entered the fray.

Derby were beginning to take control and had a 10 minute opportunity when Mansfield lost Number 8, Holmes to the sin bin, after 50 minutes.

4 minutes later, Derby crossed the Mansfield line. The forwards played a prominent role. Adam Parkins drove forward and support took Derby closer to the line. The ball went to the backs and Elliot Spencer fed Louis Gandalfo who touched down in the corner.

Derby were attacking in waves at this point, but were unable to make the breakthrough. The pressure resulted in Mansfield losing another player to the sin bin, back row forward Symcox.

Finally, with 6 minutes left, the crucial score arrived. A break by Andy Gates opened up Mansfield and allowed the ball to reach Mikey Robertson; he duly touched down for his 6th try of the season. Paul Burrows converted and Derby were 6 points clear. Mansfield pushed hard in the final few minutes but Derby were not to be denied. This win showed how much Derby have improved. It was not a pretty game, but Derby did not take a backward step. The forwards were excellent, while both forwards and backs contributed many excellent tackles. Market Bosworth are next to travel to third place Derby on Saturday ! Come on Derby !

Derby Try Scorers Louis Gandolfo and Michael Robertson - Photo by Paul Richardson

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

26th Sep'09: Derby 36 - 00 Leighton Buzzard

The spell of warm, dry weather continued and Leighton Buzzard kicked off in perfect conditions. It was perhaps a bit warm for the players but the spectators weren’t complaining !

Leighton Buzzard started strongly, but Derby were already beginning to get the upper hand in the forward battle. The first try arrived after 19 minutes. Dan Sanderson stole a line out and Phil Robinson found Andy Gates, who showed good strength to touch down.

Derby started to dominate the game but suffered a frustrating period, unable to turn possession and territory into points. Tom Warren also picked up a yellow card in this phase.

Finally, just before half time, Derby scored. Eldon Atherton took good line out ball. The ball went down the line and Louis Gandalfo left his wing, entered the line at pace and broke clear to score. Paul Burrows’ conversion made the half time score 12 – 0 to Derby.

Derby were in control and another score after the break, would probably seal the game. It duly arrived after 13 minutes, Tom Warren being driven over the line by the forwards. Leighton Buzzard then had their best spell of the game and were held up over the Derby line, unable to ground the ball. They were unable to make use of the resulting 5m scrum.

A yellow card for the Leighton Buzzard hooker, Jenkins, together with injuries saw them coming under increased pressure in the final 10 minutes.
Derby scored 3 tries in this period. Mikey Robertson scored the first, before excellent play from Dan Sanderson released Richard Maddocks to sprint clear and score his first try for the side.

Andy Gates scored his second try of the game to round off the game and with Paul Burrows adding 2 conversions the scoreboard read 36 – 0 as the final whistle blew.

This Derby side are improving week by week with the forwards looking strong and the backs creative. An exciting season seems in prospect if this improvement can be continued as the side get used to playing with each other.

Last season, Derby were on the wrong end of a 41 – 3 thumping at Mansfield. Next week they return. It will be an interesting measure of the progress made.

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

19th Sep'09: Ilkeston 20 - 15 Derby

Derby travelled to Ilkeston and their splendid new changing rooms, looking to extend their unbeaten run.

A still, sunny day saw Derby kick off, playing down the slope, with an unchanged side.

Ilkeston had an early chance with a penalty, which was missed, before Derby struck, after 6 minutes.

A superb tackle by Mickey Robertson knocked the ball out of Ilkeston hands and set Derby clear. Elliot Spencer chipped through, the ball sat up and he touched down in the corner.

6 minutes later, Derby extended their lead. Paul Burrows kicked towards the corner. The ball stayed in play and bounced loose. Elliot Spencer arrived, picked up and dived over the line for a quick fire double.

Paul Burrows knocked over the conversion and Derby were 12 clear.

Ilkeston were not disheartened and spent the rest of the half pressing forward and looking for a way through the excellent Derby defence.

A yellow card for Owen West still did not give Ilkeston the try they craved, but they did get onto the scoreboard, just before half time, with a Connolly penalty.

The break saw Derby 12 – 3 ahead, but it was Ilkeston who had dominated territory and possession.

The second half was only 2 minutes old when Ilkeston created space out wide, allowing Taylor to score in the corner.

The game flowed to and fro, with both sides having spells of pressure.

With 8 minutes left, Paul Burrows kicked a penalty to extend the lead for Derby to 7 points.

With the game entering injury time, Ilkeston attacked again and Connolly found the space to touch down. His excellent conversion tied the scores.

Worse was to follow for Derby, as another spell of pressure allowed the Ilkeston forwards to cross the line for the winning try.

The whistle went; Ilkeston were ecstatic, having snatched victory late in the game.

Derby had defended magnificently but were unable to hold on at the end.

The Derby team is still a work in progress, but they played some exciting rugby, at pace and will surely improve as the season progresses. Next week, at home to Leighton Buzzard, would be a good place to start !

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

12th Sep'09: Derby 46 - 03 Dunstablians

This time last season, a beefy Dunstablians had soundly beaten Derby at Haslams so this meeting twelve months on would put into context last week’s fine win against Wellingborough and Dunstablians wretched home performance against Syston.

Within minutes, the visitors had launched a back-row move off the back of an attacking scrum and really should have scored but for a dropped ball going over the line. This woke Derby up and they were soon at Dunstablians throats with an attacking scrum of their own and a back-row move of their own. Adam Glover had a lot to do but with close support bulldozed his way over to score on ten minutes.

Dunstablians Murphy put over a trembling penalty which could not disguise the fact that his team were not the force of twelve months ago. In contrast, Derby were the stronger, more direct, and fitter and it was only the courage of the Dunstablians defence that denied them as in one challenging sweep Gates, Atherton and Parkins (sounds like a firm of solicitors!) all came close to scoring.

Try as they may, Derby were being frustrated in building upon their narrow lead by the Dunstable’s scrambled defence. However, as half-time approached Dunstable tired and penalties began to flow Derby’s way resulting in three successful kicks by Paul Burrows. On forty minutes he rammed another into touch and from Dan Sanderson’s take captain Richie Robinson scored. Half time Derby 19 – Dunstablians 3.

Derby then drifted off course as Dunstablians had re-grouped to give Derby some defensive concerns. Indeed, Dunstablians missed a very kickable penalty and Derby needed to make something happen to wrest back control of the game.

The pack began to put in the hard yards and Dunstablians began to inextricably yield both ground and players as they succumbed to injury. Derby now substituted Sanderson, Parkins and Spencer with Hagan, Wilson and Milne and twenty two minutes into the half, began to demolish Dunstablians. Scrum-half Phil Robinson deftly exploited the space before him and fed Mikey Robertson an easy score. Then an overlap and Tom Milne trotted over for a debut try.

And there was to be no respite as prop Tom Warren entrenched on the line, sucked in all the defence before him to gift Phil Robinson a blind-side try. Owen West scored a gem then Derby wrapped it all up with a team try on the stroke of full-time with Mikey Robertson’s run-in ‘golf draw’ leaving an easy kick for Paul Burrows to convert.

In all games last season, the most tries scored by any Derby player was four. Mikey Robertson has that many in just two games and the side have scored 84 points - but putting this in context: Syston have amassed 92, Newark 85, Scunthorpe 77 and Ilkeston 75 points… and it is to Ilkeston that Derby travel to next week, so something has to give. Should be a cracker. C’mon Derby!

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Paul Richardson
 

 

5th Sep'09: Derby 38 - 07 Wellingborough

Derby ran out to start a new season of league rugby. An improvement on last season would be needed – Derby would have been relegated but for reorganisation! This reorganisation placed Derby in Midland 1 East.

Visitors, Wellingborough, would also have been demoted, so a keen game was anticipated.

Derby’s starting line up showed 5 players making their league debut for the side – how quickly would they gel ?

The first 20 minutes looked promising as Derby dominated possession and territory, but were unable to turn attacking positions into points.

This changed after 21 minutes, when Liam Blake beat 2 men to score a fine try.

This seemed to kick start Derby and 2 more tries followed in the next 6 minutes.

Ryan Manning crossed first, cutting back inside and having too much pace for the defence.

Impressive debutant Dan Sanderson, who playing in the second row, was the next to score, after an excellent run from prop Tom Warren. Dan was later made man on the match.

With Paul Burrows adding all 3 conversions, Derby were 21 points ahead.

Wellingborough narrowed the gap with 8 minutes of the half remaining, when Gall touched down and Vickers converted.

Half time saw Derby comfortably ahead 21 – 7. A promising 40 minutes – could Derby continue in this vein and extend their lead?

It took Derby 7 minutes to answer yes to that question. A break from Andy Gates gave Mikey Robertson the opportunity to score.

11 minutes later Mikey Robertson touched down again, this time good work from Dan Sanderson and Owen West provided the chance.

With Paul Burrows converting both tries, Derby had the game won at 35 – 7.

The final score came with 8 minutes remaining. Wellingborough had Gall sent to the sin bin and Paul Burrows stepped up to kick the penalty.

The final score reflected Derby’s dominance, despite Wellingborough’s hard work.

Derby should probably have scored more, but this is a promising start. Harder tasks will no doubt lie ahead, but given that Derby did not win a game until mid November last season a winning start is very nice!

Come on Derby !

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

29th Aug'09: Derby 53 - 17 Lichfield

Derby completed their pre-season preparation with a comprehensive victory over Lichfield.

Lichfield play one level below Derby in the league structure, so perhaps Derby should be expected to win; nevertheless Derby looked good in scoring 50+ points for the first time since February 2006, when they beat Paviors 52 – 9.

It was Lichfield who opened the scoring, with a try after 3 minutes, but Derby soon hit back, with Andy Gates forcing his way over.

Derby took a lead they would never lose after 19 minutes with a Craig Hughes try, before Elliot Spencer and Tom Turner also crossed.

Lichfield narrowed the gap with 2 tries of their own, before the break, leaving the half time score 24 – 17.

The second half started with a good run and try from Dave Fitchett,

Derby crossed for 4 more tries in the second half, without reply.

Andy Gates scored again, Liam Blake crossed next, before Craig Hughes scored the final two tries, completing his hat trick in the process.

Paul Burrows kicked 4 conversions, leaving the final score 53 – 17 to Derby.

This was a promising display, both in the forwards and backs, and bodes well for the season ahead.

Wellingborough are the visitors next Saturday, for the first league game of the season.

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra

 

22nd Aug'09: Derby 07 - 21 Melton Mowbray

After 2 impressive performances in the pre-season friendlies against teams from the league above and at the same level, perhaps Derby were over-confident going into this game against Melton Mowbray from level 7. Whether that was the case or not Melton had a simple game plan which involved strong forward play and lots of drives around the fringes which Derby struggled to cope with. Melton deserved their victory on the day and should do well in their league. Derby's only try was scored by Craig Hughes.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

 

18th Aug'09: Burton 00 - 31 Derby

Two large squads were pitted against each other in excellent conditions at Peel Croft. The first of 4 quarters was played at a great pace with good running and interplay from both sides. Derby’s front row of Parkins, Wilcox and Warren (both props only 19) looked particularly strong and the pack provided a good supply of ball to the backs who ran strongly, maybe slightly over-complicating at times. After a period of pressure Eldon Atherton took a short pass from the edge of a maul to drive over for a try. Half time 5 – 0.

A few minutes into the half Andy Gates, now playing at centre was put through a gap and, as he approached the full back passed to Mikey Robertson to score. Burton pushed upfield and in the Derby corner Richard Robinson was penalised for careful footwork and sin-binned. Namesake Phil followed him off for a technical offence. Whilst the next period was not that pretty in many respects it was the most satisfying as the 13 men withstood great pressure and held Burton off. Adam Glover was particularly effective in this spell.

Restored to 15 men Derby took control of the game with fly half Burrows prompting the attacks and finished strongly with tries for Craig Hughes, Atherton again and finally a long run in for Andy Gates to complete the scoring.

An excellent result of near neighbours who have had the better of us in recent seasons. Big positives were the strength of the scrummage, good continuity through the phases and incisive running in the backs, slight negatives, a few missed tackles and some poor touch kicks. Roll on the next game and then the league matches!

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

 

15th Aug'09: Derby 17 - 15 South Leicester

Derby started their pre-season matches with an excellent win against South Leicester from one league higher. In truth the result could have been more convincing with South Leicester scoring from the last move of the game and Derby choosing not to kick many kickable penalties. Derby used around 28 players, South Leicester slightly fewer and the unfortunate absence of front row cover for South Leicester meant that half the game was played with un-contested scrums, never very satisfactory.

Derby dominated possession and territory and deservedly went ahead from an Owen West try midway through the first half. The Derby midfield of Gates, Marlow and Robertson looked impressive in attack and defence and should have scored after one long break but the final pass drifted forward. Shortly afterwards the ball was moved wide to Ryan Manning, who was stopped just short to feed Mikey Robertson for a try. Half time 12 -3.

With Derby making many changes South Leicester pushed up and burst through to score a converted try but Derby responded with a fine effort from Craig Hughes. Derby continued to play with good continuity between backs and forwards. South Leicester scored a late consolation try but missed the conversion that would have made a draw.

Photographs of the game can be viewed within the Photograph Galleries

Match Report by Colin Cornfield