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
