away win and just miss on bonus point

Away to Moderns after the Christmas break against probably the most competitive and organised team have come across this season.
That said a full bench and high in confidence.

Kicking downhill with the wind and needing to establish control winning a penalty after only a couple of minutes but even with the wind, Tom Packer was not able to convert.

The wind made passing a challenge but play was maintained firmly in the Moderns half and succession of 4 penalties allowed Tom Packer to give Bingham a 0 – 12 lead. The 1st incursion into the Bingham half by moderns led to a penalty and a lapse of concentration allowed Moderns to run quickly and score in the corner 5 – 12.

Straight after the KO a penalty miss from Tom Packer but a sin binning for Moderns after the miss and Bingham elect for the scrum from which Anthony Thomas runs direct and support from the back row followed up by the rest of forwards drives the ball over the line under posts with Dave Fairchild being the last up. Converted by Tom Packer 5 – 19.

Undeterred Moderns tried to run the ball and just when probably should have kept in hands chipped through and Will North burst onto the loose ball and from his own 10m line broke the initial tackle and had enough gas to get in at the corner 5 – 24. A killer blow to Moderns which only got worse when one of their back row rather harshly got a red card just before half time for a bout of handbags.

An early penalty to Moderns in the 2nd half 8 – 24 and most of the play in the Bingham 3rd. Then, a yellow to Chris Garrod for an attempted interception, again a bit harsh and the score now 11 - 24. A good competitive spell with Bingham defence holding firm but neither side getting much quick ball. Some great carries from Jonathan Thomas & Kieran Gagg and few good moves by the backs gets Bingham great field position. A line out win and a quick penalty from Tom Packer sees him make the initial break and then driven over the line. Another killer blow 11 – 29.

As the game drew to a close, a chip over from Moderns but the ensuing melee led to a yellow for both Moderns & Bingham. Another quick penalty by Moderns as Nick Halstead was injured on the floor gave a consolation score to Moderns. Final score 16 – 29 where defence was on top but with the Bingham forwards having the overall edge in set pieces and providing the platform for a great away win.

Some great Pictures as well courtesy of Brian - see website

Moderns Away Photo album