Stafford 2nd XV Vs Newport 2nd XV

Stafford had strength in depth this weekend with a full bench to call upon if needed due to no first team action, with some members drafted into the side.
Stafford started well in early exchanges, but it was clear that both sides were willing to battle hard for the ball. The scrum was where Stafford would begin to breakdown the opposition. Purvis, Hodgkins Cooper and O Connor dominated, which allowed Stafford to win many balls against the head throughout the afternoon.
After an early penalty miss, it was Stafford whom took the lead through some neat back play allowing Vinnie Hogan to cross over, Walklate converted. Play was tight, both teams going close. As the half drew towards an end Stafford defensive line became exposed and allowed the Newport side to slip in with a try.
Skipper Ali Oxley had a few wise words to say at the half time break and Stafford came out with a much more confident frame of mind. The team began to show much more focus and determination which resulted in the score line change.
Scott Raine ran in a try and Dave Austin another together with a penalty from fly half Rich Martin. Newport did manage to get a further penalty, try and conversion but that would be the end of their scoring for the day.
Due to the dominance within the scrum the pressure finally showed as after a series of scrums on the Newport line, they were forced into errors. The Referee reached for his whistle and signalled for a penalty try much to the forwards delight.
Final Score Stafford 2nd 31 Vs Newport 2nd 17