Belper RUFC 32 Long Eaton 24

Belper welcomed local rivals Long Eaton to the Strutts for this latest league fixture. Belper had 3 back row players out so in to 6 came captain Carter and Roberts moved from second row to 7. In to the starting pack came the powerful Woodward and Kmieciak.

Belper dominated the first 20-30 minutes scoring 4 times and getting the bonus point early. This start was ultimately what won the game for the home side. First to score was Mordue who raced over in the corner in the first few minutes. In scoring though he pulled an ovary so had to be replaced by Sam Hallam-Gray. Next to score was Innocent after a good break from the backs and following further pressure from Belper’s dominant forwards Gaz Dakin flopped over to score from close range. Belper sealed the 4 try bonus point when the pack pushed Long Eaton back over their line from a scrum allowing Innocent to score easily. With some kicks being missed Belper led 22-0.

What happened next was either a case of Belper letting their foot of the gas or Long Eaton upping their game. Long Eaton started competing at the break down better and this seemed to liven up their backs. Before the half finished the away side struck twice to reduce the deficit.

The second half was a much closer game with Long Eaton pushing Belper’s defence and scoring first. Belper’s lead was now only 5 points but the home side never looked like loosing this game. Despite the away come back Belper dug in to score next. Wilmot saw a gap from close range and powered over close to the posts. Belper should have added to this but again allowed Long Eaton to score their 4th try of the game. In the last few minutes Tom Stones slotted the winning penalty to take the margin to 8 and secure another home win. Stones finishing with 7 points.

Next up Belper are away to Aldridge RUFC in the RFU cup and following that a massive away fixture to Rolls Royce.