Despite a few no shows that required some late rejigging of the team we had a decent side out to face Billingham 2nds in what was expected to be our most difficult game to date. That certainly seemed to be the case when Billingham took control of the early exchanges and it was no surprise when they took the lead by stretching our defence and putting their winger over for a converted try to lead 7-0. Gradually though we fought our way into the game and Daz went narrowly wide with a penalty. Disaster struck though when we failed to gather a kick downfield and the ball popped into the hands of ex-rover Chris Hopkinson who went over for another converted try to double Billingham's lead to 14-0. We kept battling away though - somewhat literally as just before half time some hand bags erupted and Squid and Matty Lidster were sent to the naughty step along with a Billingham player. Referee Les Cash took his time deciding on the punishment and clearly explained it and what future conduct was required to both teams. Good refereeing.

HT Rovers Heughers 0 - Billingham Lions 14

We kicked off the second half seemingly unaffected by being a man down and this was probably because we weren't. With the confusion of half time subs being made and the fact that neither Mick nor I could count it appeared we had put an extra player on! This only became apparent when Tyrone started limping and we realised we really shouldn't replace him. Squid and Matty, and the Billingham lad, did return to the field but disaster struck when Billingham raced away for an interception try to lead 21-0. We had our chances though and were rewarded when Mick Ryan forced his way over after good forward play. Daz added the extras to reduce the arrears to 7-21. Freeman then looked as if he might score with an excellent run which included a classy dummy but was hauled down by the last man. Despite us pressing further it was Billingham who scored next with a try that was a tad contentious. Another ex-rover Taz Pelser stole away from a ruck but his pass to the next Billingham player looked well forward. However it was not seen, or given, by the ref and that was all that counts. The try was unconverted and Billingham finished the game 26-7 ahead

HT Rovers Heughers 7 - Billingham Lions 26

Billingham deserved their win and we wish them well in future rounds but the score flattered them somewhat. Take away our gifting of scores and that last debatable try and the game would have been closer. We probably matched Billingham in the forwards but they had that bit more coordination and potency in the backs. Still we were by no means disgraced against a side that are really 2 leagues higher than where we normally play.

On the positive side Mick Ryan won a lot of line out ball for us including some crucial Billingham throws and deserved his try. Milky had a good little battle at 9 with Taz in the 2nd half. Our most prominent player was Freeman though who had a cracking game in the lineout and in the loose. A special mention must be made of the lads who didn't get on but patiently waited in case they were needed and supported their mates throughout. It was much appreciated Josh, Conner and Glyn.

Finally Danny Baxter, Ste Saunders and Mick Ryan (for 20 minutes) continue to be undefeated captains this season

Squad

Smith (c), Dixon, S Railton, Miller, AJ, Daz, Tyrone, Ross, Lidster, Tucker, Ryan, Lloyd, Wood, Squid, Lane

Subs: Milky, Muller, Leak, Hewitt, Healey