Belper Win

Following two consecutive victories, Belper went into this game against Ashby with confidence.

Belper kicked off playing away from the club house on what was perfect rugby conditions. The initial play led to an early opportunity for Belper to kick three points. Callum did this with ease. From the kick, Ashby pounced on some sloppy play leading to a penalty mid field in Belpers half. Opting to kick for touch instead of taking the points, Ashby then set up an impressive maul from their line win. Belper were unable to defend this play, leading to what turned out to be Ashby's only score of the day. Conversion missed.

From the kick Belper displayed an impressive show of defence. The line speed and aggressive tackling led to some sustained pressure for Ashby. The pressure finally payed off for Belper with Jack Smith making a dash for the line from 8 metres out, to then subtly pass to his left to some excellent support play from Owen Lyons who ran over for Belpers first try. Callum then added the additional 2 points. (10-5)

After a positive team talk at half time from the coach Merv, Belper received the kickoff and proceeded to make their way into Ashby's 22. Quick ball at the ruck gave Belper the opportunity for the ball to run through the backs hands, only for an Ashby player to knock the ball on in an attempted to intercept which would of guaranteed a Belper try. Yellow card to Ashby.

The next 10 minutes were an important time to capitalise and we did so with a penalty converted by Callum. Ashby continued to press hard but came up against a strong Belper defence. With the score at 13 - 5, Belper knew that the next score would be vital. Belper's second try was scored through Sam Chalkin and a conversion through Callum. Score 20-5.

Belper had 15 minutes left in the game and fitness started to show through. Gaz Dakin made a run with good support play to get into Ashby's half. With quick ball Snowy was released to make a run for the try line where he was tackled high just as he was about to put the ball down. Belper were awarded a penalty try giving us a further seven points.

Thoughts soon turned towards the five point bonus try win. This came in the last play of the game when Sam Chalkin scored Belper,s fourth try to make the score 34-5.

This is an excellent victory for a Belper side full of confidence after three consecutive wins. We look forward to an away game against Ashfield in two weeks. Thank you to all supporters and players for an excellent Saturday's rugby.