Stafford entertained Barton in their latest merit league fixture. Having struggled to get a team out this season, it was really pleasing to be able to step out and have a good trot about on the hallowed turf of pitch 2. The home team had 13 players with Barton bringing 14. Unfortunately, we did not have a referee. However, in the true spirit of rugby, Rab Cooper (qualified referee) agreed to officiate the first half and one of the Barton players (qualified referee) did the same in the second half.

The Bulldogs started well and opened up the scoring through Mark Broomhall (converted by Phil Dewick). They could have increased this lead but failed to capitalise on some good scoring opportunities. However, their pressure finally told as Maciej Drywa scored the team's second try. Barton hit back with a converted try of their own before Mark Broomhall crossed for his second (converted by Phil Dewick).

The second half began with both teams looking to add to their points tally. Barton scored the first points to reduce the gap before Maciej Drywa scored his second and the Bulldog’s fourth try to maintain their lead. As the game entered the final 10 minutes, Barton threw everything at the home defence. They scored another try but missed the conversion leaving the score 24 - 19 with a couple of minutes remaining. With the final play of the game, Barton crossed for their fourth try and nailed the conversion to grab a dramatic victory.

A huge thank you to all the players (from both teams) who contributed to a very enjoyable game.

Team:
Alex Ives
Rich Austin
Stephen Shepherd
Dave Austen
Pete Mills
Kev Clarke
Rab Cooper
Mark Broomhall
Phil Dewick
Rhys Williams
Mark Austen (Willenhall)
Maciej Drywa
Jonny Smith