STAFFORD DEVELOPMENT XV vs RUGELEY 1ST XV. 17TH FEBRUARY 2018. FRIENDLY MATCH.

Stafford 33 – 19 Rugeley

Stafford welcomed Rugeley to Castle Fields for a friendly match as the league fixtures took a rest weekend. The Stafford XV fielded its usual mixture of developing players blended with other established senior players to give a potent XV who had taken eight wins out of eleven and a top of the table position in the league.

Rugeley started the game well creating dominance through use of their large pack. Despite the relentless pressure the Stafford defence absorbed everything which was thrown at it. The home side started to edge their way into the encounter, the elusive Mark Broomhall prising open a gap to allow Sam Harbage to stride over the line for a try converted by Jack Harvey. Stafford continued to build on the momentum and moments from the restart a devastating darting run from Will Turner saw him under the posts for the second try of the afternoon, converted by Jack Harvey. Rugeley responded with a converted try of their own. The teams competed fiercely but neither could gain any further advantage until the referee’s whistle signalled the end of the half. Stafford went into half time leading 14 – 7, but having to fight hard against a Rugeley response.

Stafford came flying into the second half using their speed to put pressure onto the Rugeley defence. The visitors tried to respond but a stalking Sam Harbage read the play expertly to intercept a pass and tear down the field for his second try of the afternoon. Rugeley reorganised and responded with a converted try of their own to keep the scores in touch. Stafford wrestled back control demonstrating their passing prowess which allowed Mark Broomhall the space to cross for a try to stretch the lead, converted by Jack Harvey. Rugeley wouldn’t lie down and struck back with an unconverted try. It was Stafford who had the last say when a minor Rugeley error allowed the ball to go loose in dead ball area and an ever-aware Matt Manion pounced on for the final try of the game, converted by Jack Harvey.