Mansfield 13 v Matlock 17

Mansfield 13 v Matlock 17

What a game this was as the lead changed several time. Matlock came to Mansfield after a very close encounter some weeks before with Matlock just about beating them so under no illusions Matlock took on the home side. It was John Statham for Matlock who picked up short on the the line go over after some good pick and drives from the forwards, Sam Page slotted the extra two. With nothing held back both sides thew themselves into tackle after tackle until Matlock were judged to be off side, Mansfield decided to kick the three points. Statham picked up his second try after some good open play in the backs.

The second half Mansfield got over the try line with and excellent run by their winger which was nicely converted to draw the score level. with five minutes remaining Mansfield kicked an easy penalty to take the lead with three minutes remaining, nail biting stuff as Matlock were awarded a penalty but with little time remaining needed a try Conor Loughnane decided to quick tap and ship the ball, it went along the back line until finding Harry Colledge who managed to go over in the corner, with the conversion missed it was a tense minute as Matlock defended their line until they finally forced Mansfield to knock-on giving them a kick to touch to seal the game. This was probably the best game I've watched Matlock play and will set the standard for future encounters between these two sides, Mansfield are the most improved side this season, well done to all the boys!!