BULLDOGS vs WALSALL 3RD. 2ND APRIL 2022.

The Bulldogs entertained Walsall 3s in their latest merit league fixture. The team was a real mix of youth and experience but were in a confident mood before kick-off. The match began with both teams looking to assert their dominance. However, it quickly became apparent that the Bulldogs pack were far superior, which gave them a solid platform to play some attacking rugby. Stafford opened the scoring as Bob Hobbs picked the ball up from the base of a ruck and crashed over the try line. Walsall hit back with two tries of their own and went into half-time with a 9-point lead.

The second half started well for Stafford who hit back with another try through Alfie O'Brien (converted by Will Turner) to reduce the gap to 2 points. Two more tries followed as Spencer Latham and Ollie Platt both crossed the line. Will Turner converted both to stretch the home team's lead to 12 points. However, Walsall then scored their third try of the match to reduce the gap to 7 points. The Bulldogs hit back straight from the kick off as Jonny Smith fly-kicked the ball through to collect and score.

As the game entered the final 15 minutes, the Bulldogs began to tire. Walsall took full advantage and scored two well-worked tries. The second of which was converted to bring the scores level. The home team tried to launch one final attack but the Walsall defence held firm and the spoils were shared in what was a thoroughly entertaining game.