Thirds’ hard work brings victory

THIRDS RUGBY

Dinnington III 19

Rotherham Phoenix II 5

SIGNS of Christmas excess were visible in Dinnington’s play, and physique, as they had to work hard for victory to get their New Year off to a winning start.

In the early stages they appeared a bit lacklustre, especially in the loose, and Phoenix were able to put the pressure on.

In the set plays though Dinnington had the edge but it was not enough to give them a real advantage.

Dinnington took the lead after 15 minutes when Phoenix tried to be adventurous coming out of defence and Callum Parry picked up a loose ball to score in the corner.

However, they did not hold the lead for long as Phoenix replied minutes later to level at 5-5.

The game was evenly contested for the remainder of the half but on the stroke of half-time, Dinnington regained the lead when Richard Pettican went over from close in and David Bell added the conversion.

Facing the elements in the second half Dinnington had their work cut out to maintain their lead as Phoenix pressed to get back into the game.

The home side had to defend well at times but controlled their possession well by keeping it close to their forwards.

Late in the game, Dinnington created a period of pressure which resulted in Bradley Page running in a try, again converted by Bell, and they finished the game on the up to claim a welcome New Year victory.

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