They conceded 69 points up at Derby in a baptism of fire in their opening game in Midlands 1 East in September.

But despite being dogged by injury, Tows held their own at home, even squandering chances to best Derby.

The first of these came after kickers Ben Marlow and James Falvey had exchanged penalties to peg the score at 3-3.

After some determined defence, Tows had a chance to clear their line when they were awarded a penalty in front of their posts.

But ill-discipline within the ranks led to the penalty being reversed and Tows came out trailing 3-6 as winger Marlow landed his second.

Tows finished the half pressing Derby’s line and the pressure paid off when Tows battering ram Matt Bodily reached for the line to score.

They turned round with their noses in front at 8-6 but failed to secure the ball at the re-start to allow Derby’s centre Darren Hersey to skip in under the posts.

Marlow added the conversion and suddenly Tows were five points adrift. They were down but by no means out however.

They kept pressing and another break by Bodily looked certain to produce a try but with a three-man overlap, the ball was put to ground.

Marlow added another penalty before Tows managed to mess up another clear cut scoring opportunity.

Losing skipper Marc Yeates to a controversial yellow card, Tows had to dig deep but still they drove the Derby back over their line.

The vital score failed to materialise and Tows frustration with referee Andy Randall saw a second penalty reversal to hand Marlow three more points.

Tows were left disappointed losing a game they felt they could and should have won, but at least there was some consolation.

The injury crisis at Greens Norton Road led to a late call-up for former Colts prop Charlie Moulton, who hadn’t played rugby for a year.

Filling in at loosehead, he had an outstanding game, anchoring the scrum and rampaging with the ball in hand.

On Saturday, Tows travel the short distance to Mens Own in the semi-final of the Lewis Shield. KO 3pm.