RUGBY PICTURES: Tough day for depleted Rugby Lions at Derby

Midlands 1 East

Derby 61 Rugby Lions 12

Due to the flooding before Christmas, the Lions earlier fixture against Derby had to be switched so an hour up the M1 was necessary for the reversed fixture, writes Geoff Buck.

Unfortunately the side that the Lions were able to field was below strength and injuries during the game compounded the problem. Derby, however had not been able to play for the last month so were keen to make up the lost time.

Lions kicked off into a strong breeze and took the game to Derby but after conceding the first of a number of penalties the Derby backs shipped the ball across the field and went over for an unconverted try in the corner. This turned out to be a familiar pattern during the first half and Derby scored two further tries in a similar fashion before half time. Lions did have a competitive phase before half time that saw Josh Lockley, playing in the centre go over for a try. McFedries’ conversion hitting the post and bounced back!

Half time 19-5.

With captain Chris Wood having to leave the field The Lions struggled to cope with the strong running of the Derby backs and conceded tries at regular intervals during the second half. However there was a strong ten minutes close to the final whistle when Lions kept Derby pinned into their own 22 which resulted in the referee awarding a penalty try for persistent offending by the home side. The final score running out at Derby 61 Rugby Lions 12.

The Lions next fixture should be away at Wellingborough but this has not been confirmed. Supporters wishing to travel should check the Club’s website for details.