Kesteven vs. Nottingham Casuals (15/12/2018)

Kesteven welcomed undefeated league leaders in Nottingham Casuals to Woodnook in the final game of 2018 before the Christmas break. The home side couldn’t stem the substantial pressure from the visitors as they continued their strong form by claiming yet another win. Gavin Purvis captained the side.

In bitterly cold conditions, K’s opened the match containing the Casuals offence, holding firm and giving little gain line success to the away side. But after a clearing kick from K’s, the Casuals winger dodged the kick chase and dived over for the opening score. The conversion was added. Knowing that K’s were well in the game, the pack looked to force their way upfield, but a lack of ball retention allowed Casuals themselves to work their way back into the Kesteven half. Proving their top of the pile status, Casuals built phase after phase and grabbed their second try of the contest. A soft third followed as poor midfield defence from K’s opened up the pitch for Casuals to run through, claiming a converted score. An additional score towards the end of the half rounded off a tough half for the home side with the score at 0-24.

The second half got underway and K’s had it all to do. Gaining more possession and territory, the home side made good inroads into the Casuals defence. But as the Nottingham side turned possession back in their favour, the ball was taken upfield and sure enough, Casuals were in for their 5th of the afternoon.

However, the 31 point lead was cut as K’s used their power in the pack to control the scrum, drawing consistent penalties. Midway through the second period, the referee awarded K’s a penalty try. Buoyed by the up front dominance, the blacks went on search of a second. Increased territory and possession pinned Casuals in their own half, but that elusive second score wasn’t quite to be. Kesteven 7, Nottingham Casuals 31.

Kesteven 1st XV
1. Robert Sheardown
2. Xanti Xipu
3. Gavin Purvis
4. Will Pert
5. Olie Hanson
6. Rob Windsor
7. Rob Cann
8. Cameron Goodrich

9. Ben Adlesee
10. Adam Draper
11. Harry Cox
12. Dan Turner
13. James Goodrich
14. Jack Palin
15. Aaron Whittaker

16. William Brewis
17. Ben Whinney
18. Ian Charles