Belper lack killer instinct

30th October 2004 West Bridgeford XV 9 - Belper 1st XV 10

Belper lacked the tenacity that has been shown in the previous two games, and although missing some key players their respective replacements put in good performances.

Three penalties gave West Bridgeford the lead through this scrappy match, with Joe Blackwell reducing the deficit down to six points following a penalty.

With just minutes to go Gaz Deakin showed his skills by clearing up a dropped pass and running in a good try just short of the posts.

With the pressure on, Blackwell put the ball cleanly through the posts to get the hard fought victory.

The lack of pre match warm up showed throughout most of the game and Belper lacked the killer instinct.

Although playing a club three divisions higher the forwards dominated at all points with excellent scrumming and rucking of the ball, and as usual all players showed their defensive skills by not allowing any West Bridgeford players an easy ride.