Playing into the wind in the first half the Wanderers strong defensive display limited Sutton to 8 points. Both sides had failed to take advantage of some enterprising play as defence dominated. Sutton enjoyed the majority of territory and possession but, the Wanderers looked lively on the counter attack.

The second half began with the Wanderers enjoying more of the ball and territory; an early Ned Anderson penalty just went right of the posts. Sutton now defended patiently and the Wanderers couldn't find a way through despite having the better of the third quarter.

Then the game was turned on its head as Sutton broke out of defence & only a scrambling Wanderers defence saved a try, Sutton were awarded a penalty and applied the pressure kicking to touch. Sutton sensed their opportunity and 2 penalties later were controversially awarded a penalty try and the Wanderers were reduced to 14 men following a yellow card for the unfortunate Tim Ohlson.

Clearly rattled, the Wanderers conceded 2 unconverted tries in a 10 minute spell as Sutton took full advantage of their numerically advantage.

Restored to 15 players the Wanderers gamely set about getting a consolation try, several penalty opportunities were scorned but, the Wanderers could find no way through the miserly Sutton defence who were determined to protect their try line and did so to record a well deserved victory.

Stuart James
DoR