Seven in a row for Classy Sutton

by ADRIAN HOUSTOUN

In vicious storm conditions more familiar to those experienced by Susie Goodall in the Southern Ocean during the Golden Globe than to amateur rugby players, the hosts had first use of the benefit of the storm and did rather better with them than the Stags particularly with kicking. However, the Stags would say that during the early part of the second half, when they expected to benefit the storm died for a while.
CS started well and in the first few minutes benefitted from a strong set scrum and the winning of a couple of penalties, this however was not a day for running quick penalties. However, the decisive penalty was Sutton’s on 11 minutes and in front of the posts which full back Sam Hurley popped over 3 – 0. At the end of the first quarter the CS forwards were driving well but an attempted CS box kick was charged down easily by the home team who were then able to recycle the ball and then decisively move it wide right where they scored their first try 8 – 0. CS then had their own opportunity when one of their wings collected a chip ahead but was unable to score as he was tackled into touch. CS regretted not scoring as they then conceded a converted try to trail at the break 15 – 0. As the storm died a little, Sutton executed a well weighted grubber kick towards the CS line and one of the Sutton players caught the CS defender napping, grabbed the ball and fed his right wing who scored 20 – 0. The conditions dominated the final quarter and as the final whistle approached good work by the home forwards took play towards the posts and the last play of the match saw one of them dive and aided by slush reach the posts 27 – 0, and off for a well-deserved hot shower for the players. Having now won seven on the spin Sutton have cemented their second position in the league.
The next game for CS is on January 5th at home to Tring.