A Half Too Far

An excellent start to this game matching up to a strong Retford team. 2 long distance penalties from Tom Packer fell just short and a try from Dan Bartram after a good line out on 15 min disallowed for crossing.
Numerous discussions with both captains with the referee and 3 yellows in the run up to half time provided little continuity. The backs were giving Retford no time on the ball, the scrum, line out and defence all working until the very last play of the half where Retford worked the wide and scored in the corner. 0 - 5
The 2nd half turned in the 1st 15 mins with Retford running in 4 quick tries and succession of missed tackles. Another yellow for Bingham followed and with the game lost at 0 -36, a few crucial injuries and chasing the game gifted further tries from interceptions, taking quick penalties and losing possession in critical areas. the half was brightened with an intercept by Jamie Graham in his own half almost getting there shortly followed by deft chip, kick on and race to the line which Nick Green won to get us on the board at 5 - 48. Another gift to Retford with the last play had a final score
5 - 55. Harsh lessons learned after an enterprising 1st half where could have had 13 points on the board and maybe have created a more even 2nd half.
All this on the day when we learn Dan Blaylock, is now going to be out for at least 9 months needing knee surgery.