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Match Reports 2007 - 2008

All match reports courtesy of Peter Stinton Snr up to and including Newport on 24th November.

Pre Season Matches; Dunstablians (h); Bedford Athletic (a); Broadstreet (a); Luctonians (h); Peterborough (a); Luctonians (h) replay; Loughborough Students (h); South Leicester (a); Longton (h); Kenilworth (a); Bedford Athletic Cup (a) Newport (h) Scunthorpe (a) Kenilworth (h) Longton (a); Stourbridge (a); South Leicester (h); Loughborough Students (a); Derby (a); Peterborough (h); Luctonians (a); University College Worcester (h); Broadstreet (h); Bedford Athletic (h); Dunstablians (a); Scunthorpe (h); Newport (a)

Saturday 19th April - Midlands 1

Newport 53 - Dudley Kingswinford 12

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland (Capt), 14 Ryan Wickets, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Stefan Shillingford, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Jordan Brookes, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Chris Bartley, 5 Joe Francis, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Tommy Huggins.

DK’s catastrophic season, quite easily the worst in their history, finally and thankfully came to an embarrassingly one-sided conclusion with yet another thrashing at Forton Road. The margin this time was by a whopping nine tries to two against an average Newport side that have themselves only just avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth after a late burst of five wins from their last seven games. The home side simply had to win this one to survive and how it showed! DK by contrast had nothing but pride to play for, but a disastrous opening twenty minutes saw them ship five tries. From the kick off they had looked like rabbits in the headlights as an appalling catalogue of basic errors allowed Newport to score their first three tries with little over five minutes played. Heads then inevitably dropped and for most of the game eager Newport were at times seemingly able to turn the ball over almost at will.

The club’s demise this season is little short of remarkable, runners up last season and arguably a little unlucky to lose the playoff game, the current season seemed likely to be one of high promise. An unprecedented number of injuries throughout the campaign have certainly taken their toll and DK have rarely been able to field a settled side but besides injuries, the loss of quality backs Eddie Smith, Gareth Davies both retiring and Andy McLellan (to Kidderminster) and forwards Pete Knight (Stour), Richard Port (Wolves) and Dan Chesham (illness) has cost the club dear. With very little recruitment activity evident last summer, the chickens, as they say have come home to roost!

There were seven changes to the side that lost to Scunthorpe last week. Coaches Neil Shillingford and Mark Lockley brought in six of the Colts side Jordan Brookes (SH), Gareth Bown (FH) and Stefan Shillingford (IC) in the backs and Chris Bartley (BF), Joe Francis (SR) and Stefan Thorpe (bench). Ryan Wickets was on the right wing. Whilst there was almost nothing to enthuse about in DK’s performance, the youngsters in general did well. Chris Bartley and Joe Francis strove hard in the pack and Stefan Thorpe made a big impact at prop in the second half. Jordan Brookes had a competent game under pressure at scrum half.

A missed tackle followed by a charged down kick gave Newport their first try when the loose ball was picked up by loose head prop Morgan Kiernan for the pack to drive him over. DK had a couple of promising surges up the middle but lost the ball again for Newport to run it back at them. Good inter-passing between the backs saw fly half James Curgenven over to make it 10-0 after 4 minutes. On 6 minutes further loose play saw DK again lose possession from an unforced error, this time Fijian centre Tomasi Tanumi ran 40m virtually unopposed to score a third unconverted try making it 15-0.

Though somewhat shell-shocked by Newport’s opening salvo DK managed to hit back with a good try of their own after 16 minutes. From a ruck inside the Newport half quick ball from Jordan Brookes to Adam Blackford saw the hooker send in right wing Ryan Wickets under the posts. Jordan Brookes added the conversion to make it 15-7. From the kick off Newport surged straight up to the other end and hooker Phil Kaleta was driven over far too easily from a maul. Fly half James Curgenven added the extras for 22-7 after 18 minutes. A dropped ball in the centre led directly to Newport’s fifth try when the ball was swept out for former DK winger Mark Millward to run in unopposed. Curgenven again added the conversion for Newport to lead 29-7 after only 22 minutes. There then followed a lull in the scoring up until half time, DK managing to hold onto the ball a little better, due mainly to the sterling efforts of No 8 Andy McEwen and Ben Connet’s superb line out work.

Half Time: NEWPORT 29 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7

Newport’s tight head prop Craig Ingrams was at last yellow carded for killing the ball after 45 minutes, he had been lying all over it for most of the first half with impunity, not that it made much difference as Newport made it 36-7 after 52 minutes when a superb 60m break from centre Tomasi Tunami right through the middle of the DK cover was followed by an extravagant flipped pass back over his head for scrum half Jamie Simpson to score with ease. A seventh Newport try duly followed after 58 minutes, second row Micheal Woodhouse this time the recipient of DK’s largesse after yet another ball was lost in the tackle. James Curgenven converted for 43-7. DK had sent on their replacements and another debutant prop Stefan Thorpe made an almost instantaneous impact as he blasted an opening in the Newport defence for fellow Colt Chris Bartley to score on his debut to make it 43-12.

Newport though had the bit between their teeth and scored a couple further tries before the end. Firstly a poor defensive kick was fielded by full back Watsoni Legeti who ghosted past four defenders to score after 78 minutes (48-12), then in stoppage time neat interplay inside the DK 22 culminated in No 8 George Armitage touching down Newport’s 9th try to hack the last wheel off the DK wagon and the home side over the 50 points mark at 53-12

DK’s next game is the North Midlands Cup Semi Final against Hereford (away) to be confirmed. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 12th April - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 24 Scunthorpe 49

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland (Capt), 14 Liam Reynolds 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Mike Jones, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Rob Chivers, 5 Jamie Harding, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Neil Chivers, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Paul Coles, 17 James Bullock, 18 Simon Fletcher.

Already Midlands 1 Wooden Spoonists, DK duly confirmed their status at the bottom of the pile by being soundly beaten at home by second bottom club Scunthorpe who are also relegated. At least both sides tried to throw the ball about, resulting in eleven tries being scored, seven tries to four in Scunthorpe’s favour. DK were always second best in the set scrums and were unable to maintain any concerted pressure.

Scunthorpe had the better ball to play with throughout and Scunny’s left winger Viamoso Rewiti, always a handful, scored a couple of tries and made a couple more with his incisive running skills. Centre Tom Foster scored a hat trick of tries for the visitors as they ran away with the game in the last quarter. Nigel Francis and replacement centre Simon Fletcher scored DK’s tries with a brace apiece.

DK made several changes for the game Liam Reynolds came in for Ryan Wickets on the right wing and Tom Weaver for Simon Fletcher in the centre. Scrum half Alan Mitchell replaced Tommy Huggins at scrum half and by all accounts played very well. Al Francis was at loosehead prop, replacing Paul Coles and Neil Chivers stood in at hooker for Adam Blackford. With Ian Langford still injured the back row was Rob Chivers (6), Tom McIntosh (7) and Andy McEwen (8). The bench was made up of Paul Coles, James Bullock and Simon Fletcher.

This week’s Match Report courtesy of Scunthorpe RFC:

Scunthorpe travelled to the West Midlands for the battle of the basement in Midlands division One and managed to a handsome win by 49 points to 24.

The Greens fielded virtually the same side that started the NLD cup final the previous week, with the exception of James Fisher on the right wing in place of the injured Callum Davies.

With both teams condemned to relegation and with only pride at stake the ball was chucked about giving the spectators a feast of open rugby. The only surprise was that it took until the 20th minute for the opening score to arrive. Although Scunthorpe had the better of possession and territory, it was the home side that crossed the line first when an overlap was created on the left wing for Nigel Francis to cross. The conversion was missed and it took The Greens only three minutes to respond when Rewiti Viamoso received possession on half way and evaded all pursuers for a try half way in from touch. Tim Robinson struck the conversion and Scunthorpe were in the lead at 7 points to 5.

On the half hour Viamoso again created havoc from possession inside his own half before feeding Tom Foster who ran in the try. Robinson again added the extras. The same combination struck again 4 minutes later but this time Robinson was unable to convert from wide out. With an advantage of 19 points to 5 the Heslam Park boys were looking good but Dudley were also playing their part in an entertaining game and once again it was Nigel Francis that got away down the left flank to finish under the posts for an easy conversion for Tom Bissell. As half-time approached, Tom Foster completed his hat-trick when once more he combined with Viamoso for another outstanding try. Robinson added the extras to take his team into the break leading by 26 points to 12.

The home team came out for the second half with added conviction and their reward was a try after just 2 minutes of play for replacement centre Simon Fletcher. Tom Bissell kicked the conversion and at 26 points to 19 it was “game on” with only one score separating the two sided. Robinson kicked a penalty after eleven minutes before Viamoso again made his presence felt and scored after 15 minutes. Robinson tagged on the extras and The Greens had a cushion at 36 points to 19. The Midlanders refused to lie down and once more Simon Fletcher crossed following a powerful run down the left touchline with little margin for error.

Scunthorpe did however close out the game with another Robinson penalty and late tries from James Fisher and Benn Fawcett. DK’s next game is Newport (away) on Sat April 19th (2 weeks). p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 29th March - Midlands 1

Dunstablains 27 - Dudley Kingswinford 0

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland (Capt), 14 Ryan Wickets 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Mike Jones, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Tommy Huggins, 8 Tom McIntosh, 7 Rob Chivers, 6 Neil Chivers, 5 Jamie Harding, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Paul Coles. Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Pete Booth, 18 Allan Mitchell.

A severely depleted DK lost their 17th league game out of 20 in what must surely be their worst ever season. Despite a battling performance, Dunstablians who are third from bottom of Midlands 1 and in real danger of relegation themselves, were far too strong for their visitors and ran out comfortable winners on the day. Playing with the strong breeze first half DK were only 0-5 down at half time but they were hampered by the loss of scrum half Tommy Huggins (rib injury) after only 10 minutes, they also struggled badly against the elements in the second half enabling Dees to score a further four tries and record a comprehensive win. To add to their woes DK also lost winger Ryan Wickets to a neck and back injury in the second half that required hospital treatment; hopefully it will not prove to be too serious.

With Andy McEwen on holiday, Ian Langford and James Bullock were still recovering from injury, DK were short of senior back row players but the Chivers twins Rob and Neil worked hard on the flanks alongside No 8 Tom McIntosh for little reward. With DK locks Shaun Griffiths and Ollie Shakespeare both out for the season, young Jamie Harding partnered Ben Connett in the second row. One welcome returnee to the pack was Adam Blackford at hooker. The backs had skipper Ian Gowland at full back and brought in Ryan Wickets on the right wing.

DK started the game with the strong wind at their backs but though they put together some decent moves, it was extremely hard work against a strong Dees pack. There were a couple of half chances but in the main DK were second best in the forward exchanges and when their backs did get the ball they were well marshalled by the home cover.

As the game progressed it became clear that DK would need at least couple of scores before half time if they were to have any chance at all in the game. As it was the home side gradually assumed forward domination and towards half time they began to make serious inroads into the DK defence. On 35 minutes and after several close attempts No 8 Mark Kearns scored an unconverted try from a rolling maul to make it 5-0. DK held on for the final few minutes but it was obvious they were going to be in for a tough second period.

Half Time: DUNSTABLIANS 5 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

Initially DK held several surges from the home side but when skipper blindside flanker Brendan Clarke crossed from another rolling maul after 54 minutes to make it 10-0, the writing was on the wall for the visitors. On the hour Dees again attacked strongly and the ball spun wide to left wing Kevin Boland who scored out wide to make it 15-0. DK conceded a fourth try almost immediately when the ball was again whipped out left, this time second row Byron Odell found himself in the three-quarter line and crashed over close in to make it 20-0 after 62 minutes

DK had no answer to the continual pressure and Dee’s replacement Charlie Nissen touched down their fifth try after another backs move on 65 minutes, replacement back Toby Henry converted to make it 25-0. To their credit DK plugged away in defence and with the match won Dees were unable to break the line again in the last 15 minutes.

The gloom currently surrounding Heathbrook was however lifted somewhat by news of a superb 5-10 win by DK’s Colts at Moseley in the North Midlands Colts Cup Semi Final with a try from hooker Tom Lockley and a conversion and a penalty from fly half Jordan Brookes. They will now meet Stourbridge Colts in the final (Venue and date tba).

DK’s next game is Scunthorpe (home) on Sat April 12th (2 weeks). p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 8th March 2008 - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 5 - Bedford Athletic 35

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Simon Fletcher, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Mike Jones, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Tommy Huggins, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Tom McIntosh, 5 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Al Francis, 2 Neil Chivers, 1 Paul Coles. Reps: 16 Rob Chivers, 17 Ryan Wickets, 18 Jamie Harding.

When it seems that things can’t possibly get any worse, they invariably do! DK lost their most influential player Ian Langford, who turned his ankle in the warm-up prior to the kick off, prompting an emergency shake-up in the pack. Prop Dan Shakespeare went into the second row in place of Tom McIntosh (already an emergency second row!) who replaced Langford in the back row. Despite the disruptions, the DK pack looked much better as a unit than they did last week against Broadstreet. Territory and possession were pretty evenly shared; in fact the DK forwards dominated these areas for long periods in the second half but the DK backs, who once again could not be faulted for effort, lacked the flair and pace of the Ath back line, thus creating little to threaten the visitors very adequate defence.

In addition to the enforced changes to the pack Paul Coles returned to the front row and in the backs Simon Fletcher was at full back replacing Cameron Pimlow (Worcester Academy commitments), Rob Chivers, Jamie Harding and Ryan Wickets made up the bench. Whilst there was generally very little to enthuse about, the DK pack stuck grimly to their task and could not be faulted. Andy McEwen was the DK Supporters Man of the Match for yet another tremendous all round performance, he has certainly made the No 8 position his own this season. Dan Shakespeare made a very good fist of playing second row, probably for the first time ever at senior level; Paul Coles also had a very good game in both loose and set.

Ath, with a strong breeze at their backs, began the game at a furious pace and DK scrum half Tommy Huggins did very well to steal the visitor’s ball at the base of a scum on the DK line in the opening seconds of the game. The home side were a little unlucky to concede the first try after 7 minutes when the referee missed a clear forward pass that enabled centre Ben Campbell to race through and score, evergreen fly half Ashley Tapper converting his first of five to give Ath a 0-7 lead. DK mounted a few attacks that were easily dealt with before Ath hit them with a second try after 16 minutes. Several forward drives on the DK line were repulsed but eventually centre Phil Elphick squeezed in at the corner and Tapper made it 0-14 with the conversion from the touchline.

DK tried very hard to make inroads but were hampered by a lack of cohesion in their backline with both poor handling and distribution; they were also giving far too many penalties away to maintain any kind of pressure. Tom Bissell missed a penalty against the strong breeze after 27 minutes before the Ath really started to put their foot on the gas. A scything, pacy break from the ever dangerous Ath right winger Simon Elphick on 32 minutes, cut right through the DK rearguard before he sent in fellow winger Fernley Simmonds for an excellent, length of the pitch score. Ashley Tapper’s third conversion made it 0-21. A score like that tends to sap confidence and Ath piled on even more pressure to be rewarded with a fourth try after 38 minutes when Player Coach and second row Peter Taylor was driven over from a rolling maul. The unerring Tapper slotted another difficult conversion to see Ath 0-28 up at the break.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0 BEDFORD ATHLETIC 28

Ath resumed the offensive after the break and a neat half break and inside pass from outside centre Phil Elphick set up another fine flowing move culminating in loose head prop Andy Grounds touching down their fifth try after 43 minutes. Ashley Tapper added his fifth conversion to make it 0-35 and a real hiding for the home side looked very much on at that stage.

DK though hit back straight from the kick off when a rare early and accurate ball reached Simon Fletcher in the centre, his fine 45m break and outside pass to Ian Gowland in space saw the DK skipper touch down in the right hand corner to make it 5-35 after 45 minutes. Strangely Ath seemed to lose some momentum after this and offered little further threat. For the final half hour DK had the bulk of territory and possession but were just unable to penetrate the visitor’s solid defence, it seemed as though every time the forwards made good ground with the ball, the backs somehow managed to lose it. They might have done better to concentrate attacks through their forwards who, despite the scoreline, had begun to dominate the exchanges.

DK had a very good opportunity to “win” the second half when Ath’s player coach and second row Peter Taylor was yellow carded on 73 minutes and DK awarded a penalty well inside the Ath half. With the biggest forward on their side off the field and another couple limping after a collision, a penalty kick to touch and a catch and drive would have seemed to most, a very obvious, and easily the most promising option. However DK unaccountably opted to run it and approximately five seconds later Ath had regained the ball! It might have been an acceptable option had there been anything “on” but in this case it seemed very much like looking a gift horse in the mouth!

Next Sunday 16th March - National Colts Cup - Quarter Final.

DK Colts vs Colchester Colts - Kick off 2.00pm

DK’s next game is Dunstablians (away) on Sat March 29th (3 weeks). p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 1st March 2008 - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 14 - Broadstreet 19

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Mike Jones, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Ian Gowland(Capt), 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Tommy Huggins, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Joe Francis, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Neil Chivers, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Stefan Thorpe, 17 James Bullock, 18 Simon Fletcher.

After a little light relief in the North Midlands Cup game last week, DK were back in league action and sadly, back to losing, though they had much the better chances to win, and failure to take a couple of gilt edged opportunities certainly cost them the game. Broadstreet’s current form was no better than DK’s, they had been hammered in all of their last three league games scoring 30 points with 98 against and DK really could and should have won this one, had they demonstrated a little more concentration. As it was, DK handed Street 14 points on a plate by twice managing to lose the ball in their own half, through poor execution of basic moves. They clawed their way back to 14 apiece late in the second half only to let the visitor’s regain control with a try from a penalty lineout catch and drive, they were then able to comfortably play out time.

Another area of some concern for the home side was a distinct lack of “edge” in the forward confrontations. The abrasive Street pack put themselves about and not always strictly within the spirit of the game. DK suffered three head injuries in the game which were very little to do with rugby, but they went unpunished. Fair enough, no point bleating about it, you have to play the referee, but under these circumstances if protection for the players is not forthcoming, they need, at the very least, to front up, refuse to be intimidated and protect themselves at all times.

DK made several changes, including two in the front row. Dan Shakespeare (TH) and Neil Chivers (H) replaced Paul Coles (unavailable) and Adam Blackford (knee). Tom McIntosh was at o/s flanker replacing James Bullock (bench). In the backs Tom Bissell was at fly half with Mike Jones at outside centre. Tom Weaver started at inside centre with Simon Fletcher on the bench. Finally Tommy Huggins made a very creditable 1st XV debut at scrum half in place of Alan Mitchell. The last bench place was taken up by Colt’s prop Stefan Thorpe. Cameron Pimlow was DK Supporters Man of the Match, his electric pace was always a threat and was the only back able to break the Street line regularly. Tommy Huggins made a promising debut at scrum half, getting the ball away quickly, tackling hard and marshalling his forwards well. The front five, admittedly disrupted somewhat by the head injury to Ben Connett, were generally, disappointing with only the Francis brothers showing any fire. The back row worked very hard but needed more support.

Rookie hooker Neil Chivers was given a baptism of fire in the opening scrums as DK were shunted all over the place and it did not take long for Street to take the lead after DK twice gave the ball away inside their own half and a couple of astute passes saw centre Josh Fowles score close in. He converted his own try for the visitor’s to lead 0-7 after 11 minutes. DK have persisted over the years in using a move involving the fly half switching the direction of play with a centre or a.n.other taking the ball at pace. It might be a suitable time to ditch this one, as the error rate over the past couple of years, regardless of the players involved, has been enormous at what must be around 50/60%!

The DK scrum did improve and DK belatedly began to spark but then another horrendous lost ball on 25 minutes (courtesy of another cock-up of the aforementioned move!) saw Street pick up, move the ball quickly left to run in another simple try from left wing Dan Phillips. Broadstreet were suddenly 0-14 up without having had to think too much about it! Just to add to the chaos DK lost their lineout specialist Ben Connett to what looked like concussion after a bang to the head. Despite this and roared on by a partisan crowd DK at last began to put the visitors under heavy pressure. A great 50m break from Mike Jones after 34 minutes should have been an easy try for skipper Ian Gowland but he was unable to hold the pass with the line at his mercy. A minute later the DK pack made 35m from a rolling maul only for the visitors to turn it over. DK kept at it and quick ruck ball from Tommy Huggins was swiftly moved down the line for Mike Jones to dive over in the corner to make it 5-14 after 37 minutes. Then Broadstreet pulled down a rolling maul and Cameron Pimlow’s penalty in stoppage time made it 8-14.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8 BROADSTREET 14

DK kept up the pressure and Cameron Pimlow brought them 3 points closer at 11-14 after 44 minutes. Cameron then made a magnificent 65m break on 48 minutes, carving through the Street cover with ease. Less than 10m out from the line, he looked well set to score what would have been a superb individual try, but instead his outside pass was stifled by the Street cover. At this stage DK were making all the running but the backs passing in the centre was poor and saw several moves break down. After 68 minutes Cameron Pimlow punished another Street infringement and brought the scores level at 14-14 with his 3rd penalty.

With a rare home victory now in sight DK unbelievably let Broadstreet back into the game right from the kick off when they were penalised. Street in their first real attack of the second half went for a lineout catch and drive and succeeded with skipper and second row Ed Simpkiss being driven over for an unconverted try after 72 minutes and a 14-19 lead. The visitor’s pack never allowed DK back into their half and the final minutes were spent with DK again defending their own line.

DK are at home to Bedford Athletic (league) next week. KO 3.00 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 23rd February 2008 – North Mids Cup (Qtr Final)

DUDLEY-KINGSWINFORD 46 Vs Worcester University 8

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Mike Jones, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Simon Fletcher, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Tom McIntosh, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Paul Coles. Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Peter Stinton, 19 Tom Bissell.

DK Supporters Man of the Match – Andy McEwen

DK recorded a rare but very welcome win in what has been a pretty barren season to date. The University side were an unknown quantity to DK, but had certainly given the home side a very hard game a couple of years ago when DK held on to win 18-9 on 1st April 2006 in the same Quarter Final fixture, thanks largely to the boot of Andy McLellan. This time around, although DK won by a much more comfortable margin, the students, led by DK’s own Chris Gledhill fought like tigers for every ball right up until the final whistle and kept DK on their toes throughout. DK are still having big problems getting their back line functioning well as a unit. They did improve this after half time, but it was significant that the backs only scored three of DK’s eight tries in the game.

There were several changes to DK’s side this week. Ollie Shakespeare broke a toe in training and is out for the rest of the season, joining fellow first team lock Shaun Griffiths. Ollie was replaced by Tom McIntosh. Alex Francis replaced Dan Shakespeare (bench) at tight head prop. In the backs Simon Fletcher came in at fly half for Pete Stinton (bruised chest) though Stint Jnr took a place on the bench. Tom Weaver replaced Si Fletcher in the centre and Mike Jones replaced Tom Bissell (bench). Neil Chivers taking up the last bench place.

The DK pack stuck to their task well. It was a war of attrition in the first half with the home forwards slowly but surely asserting their dominance against a very lively University eight. The DK front row of Al Francis/Dan Shakespeare, Adam Blackford and Paul Coles got well on top in the second period and with Ben Connett and Tom McIntosh cleaning up at the lineouts, DK were in full control. Andy McEwen was outstanding at No 8 and was DK Supporters Man of the Match for an outstanding all action performance, making the hard yards all afternoon, often smashing right through the opposing forwards to cause mayhem. Ian Langford was also a tower of strength in attack and defence. In the backs Nigel Francis tried hard to get involved without receiving too many passes! Tom Bissell kept DK on the front foot in the second half with some superb, line kicking and weighing in with a smartly taken try.

The university began with a strong breeze behind them and made most of the early running, full back Gareth Davies was narrowly wide with a 2nd minute penalty before DK began to settle and make inroads into the University half. The home side took the lead after 14 minutes when No 8 Andy McEwen picked up and broke forward deep into the University 22. The ball was moved out to Simon Fletcher whose half-break and inside pass sent in lock Tom McIntosh under the posts. Cameron Pimlow converted for DK to lead 7-0. Gareth Davies reduced the arrears with a 21st minute penalty to make it 7-3 before DK increased their lead with an unconverted try after 28 minutes. Several driving mauls close to the visitor’s line culminated in Andy McEwen driving over for DK’s 2nd try to make it 12-3.

DK were unconvincing for the next 10 minutes or so, failing to make touch from penalties and thereby allowing the students to run the ball back at them. They finally broke through again in stoppage time when quick ball left saw full back Cameron Pimlow enter the line at pace and though tackled he managed to twist over for the try.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 17 WORCESTER UNIVERSITY 3

DK gave away a rash of penalties at the start of the second half but got back into the groove with a great bit of sleight of hand from Ben Connett and James Bullock who emerged from the back of a maul inside the student’s 22 together, James Bullock sending in Ben Connett for an unconverted try to make it 22-3 after 47 minutes. DK scored again after 50 minutes when good support play from replacement fly half Tom Bissell saw him pop up on the right wing and cleverly drill the ball past the last defender to follow up and touch down an excellent try. At this stage the students were looking a little ragged and with Tom Bissell keeping them penned in their own half with several pin point long range touch kicks, Mike Jones ran through the student’s cover from the 22 to score DK’s 6th try on 54 minutes. The conversion from Cameron Pimlow made it 34-3.

A great 60m break from Andy McEwen was spoiled when DK scrum half Alan Mitchell was yellow carded for stamping at the ensuing ruck. Mitch had been having a good game and it was unnecessary. The students took advantage of DK’s depletion to score their only try, full back Gareth Davies scampering in for a good try from halfway to make it 34-8. Their respite did not last long however as Tom McIntosh found himself unchallenged when winning a 61st minute lineout and sprinted 15m to the line for DK’s 7th try for 41-8 after Cameron Pimlow’s conversion. The students were undaunted, to their credit they tried to run the ball, even out of defence but came unstuck again after 65 minutes when, in trying to do just that, Andy McEwen stole the ball to send in Ben Connett for his second try of the game making the final score 46-8. Again the students attacked and spent much of the last 10 minutes camped near the DK 22 but were unable to break through.

DK are at home to Broadstreet (league) next week. KO 3.00 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 15th February 2008 – Midlands 1

LUCTONIANS 41 Vs DUDLEY-KINGSWINFORD 3

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Tom Bissell, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Paul Coles. Reps: 16 Al Francis, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Mike Jones.

DK never stopped trying but they were soundly trounced by a capable and confident Luctonians side who were stronger up front and had too much pace and ability behind the scrum for DK on the day. With their confidence at fairly low ebb, DK’s game was unsurprisingly error ridden throughout and their hosts were quick to take full advantage of their visitor’s errors. When DK kicked - which was far too often – their following up totally lacked conviction and they invariably lost the ball, meat and drink to the rampaging Luc’s side that helped themselves to six tries, three in each half, at least three of them down to DK’s largesse. Perversely, DK had much more territory and possession during the game than the score would suggest, but despite the efforts of the pack in the loose, the side collectively, never looked likely to penetrate a solid and extremely competent Luc’s defence.

DK made three changes to last week’s side against Peterborough. In the pack Paul Coles and James Bullock replaced Wayne Millard (unavailable) and Tom McIntosh (ill) at loose head prop and open-side flanker respectively. Simon Fletcher replaced Mike Jones at outside centre. In the pack, the back row toiled hard against the odds with James Bullock catching the eye with his excellent tackling skills and second row Ollie Shakespeare continuing to improve. DK’s lineout, a huge part of the modern game, was again excellent but sadly they were unable to profit from it. The backs were again laboured and though a fair amount of ball was won during the game, it either foundered in the centre or was lost after being run back into the pack.

All DK, its Rugby Committee and coaches can hope for now this season is to prepare the ground for next season, hopefully, with our new coaches Shilly and Lockers now on board, more will be demanded and provided than was in last year’s close season. The players in this season’s squad with aspirations of playing 1st XV rugby next term need to be training twice a week on a regular basis to be in with a chance of selection in what is likely to be a period of major change as DK strives to regain the “Status Quo”.

DK made a businesslike start and the first 10 minutes or so saw them taking the game to their hosts but it soon became obvious that it was going to be a tough afternoon when scrum half Chris James kicked a penalty to put Luc’s 3-0 up on 12 minutes after heavy forward pressure and DK failing to release in the tackle. DK had a couple of early opportunities but failed to put Luc’s under any pressure with poorly struck penalties not finding touch. Another poor kick saw Luc’s counter brilliantly after 19 minutes, superb inter-passing left a great hole in the DK rearguard and hooker Nick Byron, not their swiftest player, was allowed to run 25m for a try in the corner. Chris James obliged with the conversion to increase Luc’s lead to 10-0. After 20 mins a tremendous 75m break from DK’s Cameron Pimlow should have resulted in a try but support was lacking and Lucs defending in depth were able to clear their lines.

DK were constantly under pressure at the base of the scrum but were helped Andy McEwen’s ability to pick up superbly well under pressure. Another poor kick led to Luc’s 3rd try after 28 minutes when Luc’s left winger Andy Garrod ran 50m through several feeble tackles to score close in increasing the home lead to 17-0. DK tried hard to get back into the game winning a lot of territory and possession well inside the Luc’s half but time and again failing to break the line. Lucs showed them how in first half stoppage time when a superb flowing move through several pairs of hands culminated in wing Andy Garrod crossing for his second try with Chris James converting to make it 22-0. DK’s only reply was a Cameron Pimlow penalty just before the half time whistle making it 22-3.

Half Time: LUCTONIANS 22 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

Lucs exerted tremendous pressure at the onset of the second half with wave after wave of attacks from all angles. They finally touched down through second row Tim Breakwell when DK simply ran out of cover. Chris James converted for Lucs to lead 29-3 on 41 minutes. The game stagnated for a while in midfield with the DK pack striving manfully to create openings. Lucs were comfortably held at bay until lamentable defence let in the home side for their fifth try after 61 minutes. DK full back Cameron Pimlow did brilliantly to chase down and tackle a Luc’s attacker a metre short of the line but with the rest of the DK cover AWOL scrum half Chris James simply picked up the loose ball and dotted it down for 34-3.

DK to their credit did not lie down and attacked for most of the last quarter of the game though without causing the Lucton rearguard too many problems. James Bullock was yellow carded for handling in the ruck in injury time and 14 man DK conceded a sixth try in the eighth minute of injury time when centre Cameron Hewitt crossed after a relentless series of attacks from the home side. Chris James added a final conversion to make the final score 41-3.

DK are at home in the Quarter Finals of the North Midlands Cup against University College Worcester next week. KO 2.30 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 09th February 2008 – Midlands 1

DUDLEY-KINGSWINFORD 9 Vs PETERBOROUGH 18

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Mike Jones, 12 Tom Bissell, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Wayne Millard. Reps: 16 Al Francis, 17 James Bullock, 18 Steffan Shillingford.

DK crashed to their thirteenth league defeat of the season against fellow strugglers Peterborough at Heathbrook, though in no way could they be deemed to have been unlucky. Despite leading 9-0 after a bright twenty minute opening spell, Boro’ were comfortably the better side for the rest of the game and fully deserved the points. The visitors took time to settle but after scoring their first try they took a stranglehold on the game, with DK finding it increasingly difficult to get out of their own half. The home side never gave up and tackled well throughout, showing commendable spirit, but a lack of pace and invention meant that they rarely threatened the Boro’ line. The DK coaches had asked for the ball to be given width but the wingers hardly saw it!

DK made five changes to the team that played at Derby last week. Cameron Pimlow and Ben Connett returned to the side at full back and second row respectively. Centre Carl Robinson (OC) was ruled out just prior to the kick off (ankle) and was replaced by Tom Bissell (IC) with Mike Jones moving to outside centre. Liam Reynolds replaced Ben Coles on the left wing and Dan Shakespeare replaced Al Francis at tight head prop. Despite a disappointing overall team performance, the back five worked hard, the lineout was pretty even but the DK front row were under pressure in the tight losing two or three balls against the head. No 8 Andy McEwen was in particularly good form and very impressive, making many hard yards during the game and tackling well. Half backs Alan Mitchell and Pete Stinton worked like Trojans in defence, assisting the DK pack to halt Boro’s juggernaut pack several times, especially in the second half. Mike Jones was also prominent in defence.

Full back Cameron Pimlow opened the scoring for DK with a 5th minute penalty as a bright start from the home side forced the visitors to infringe. DK’s pace in the loose was causing the heavier Boro’ pack a few problems and another well struck penalty from Cameron Pimlow after 15 minutes increased the home side’s lead to 6-0. DK kept up the momentum and a further Cameron Pimlow penalty after 19 minutes saw DK further increase their lead to 9-0. Boro’ replied on 23 minutes with a penalty from fly half Jason O’ Toole to make it 9-3.

At this stage both sides were striving hard for forward domination, but it was Boro’ that very gradually began to take control through their heavier pack. They dealt DK a body blow with a very good try in first half stoppage time when after taking a heel against the head near the DK 10m line, it was spread quickly down the line to left wing Alex Ciuchlejus who sped in for the try. Jason O’ Toole converted to give Boro’ a 9-10 interval lead.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 9 PETERBOROUGH 10

Except for a brief flurry at the start of the half, DK were kept under almost constant pressure throughout the second period with the Boro’ forwards ominously stronger as the game wore on. The decisive score came after 65 minutes when Boro’s tight head prop James Clarke drove over (all too easily) from a short catch and drive lineout inside the DK22 for an unconverted try to make it 9-15 in Boro’s favour.

A converted try would have still been enough for DK to win, but Boro never gave them a sniff and when Jason O’ Toole banged over a 72nd minute penalty to put them two scores up at 9-`18, it was all over. DK did have a late chance for a consolation score when full back Cameron Pimlow broke free down the left wing at pace. He neatly chipped over the cover and was in with a real chance of a try when he was cynically taken out by a Boro’ replacement, Ben Chan. It was bad enough to warrant a straight red card but all DK got was a penalty. It is a pity that such blatant cheating was allowed to prosper.

DK are away at Luctonians next week. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 2nd February - Friendly

Derby 18 - Dudley Kingswinford 10

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Simon Fletcher, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Stefan Shillingford, 12 Mike Jones, 11 Ben Coles, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Joe Francis, 3 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Wayne Millard. Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Sam Pedley, 18 Tom Weaver.

As on so many occasions this season DK flattered to deceive. The DK pack once again provided the platform and enough good ball for the backs to have wrapped this game up by half time. Instead they were 10-5 down at the break after squandering many opportunities to score, in what was a decidedly one-sided first half. Whilst the ball from the set pieces was a tad slow and wayward at times, simply running straight might have helped the DK backs penetrate more, instead of sideways across the field and at times even backwards! A lack of awareness and support also cost DK dear when tremendous breaks by Ollie Shakespeare and Andy McEwen, almost up to the home line, fizzled out with nobody on hand to take a scoring pass with the cover well beaten on both occasions.

DK also tended to overcomplicate matters, too often taking the ball back into the forwards when simple quick ball out to the pace men Stef Sillingford, Ian Gowland and Ben Coles might have been more productive. With very limited possession and territory, especially in the first half, Derby’s more talented backs moved the ball wide at every opportunity, they always looked a threat with the ball in hand and when DK’s pack lost a little of their dominance later in the second half, they added a second try, for the home side to run out deserved winners.

DK fielded an “experimental” side making six changes from last week. In the pack brothers Al (FR) and Joe Francis (SR) replaced Dan Shakespeare and Ben Connett (unavailable) and Tom McIntosh (BR) replaced James Bullock. In the back division Simon Fletcher (FB) replaced Cameron Pimlow (unavailable), Mike Jones (IC) replaced Tom Weaver and Ben Coles was on the left wing in place of Stef Shillingford who moved into the centre. Joe Francis was making his 1st XV debut at second row and did very well. Besides Joe, Tom McIntosh and Andy McEwen were always prominent for DK as was Ollie Shakespeare in a competent performance from the pack. For the backs it was generally another undistinguished afternoon. Alan Mitchell and Pete Stinton Jnr tried hard to inject some momentum, but it was Simon Fletcher who stood out most, with a strong and very committed game from full back.

DK opened strongly, against the elements they drove the Derby eight back time after time in the loose and took a well deserved lead with a try after 10 minutes. After strong forward pressure, good work from the back row sent in left wing Ben Coles for the unconverted try and a 0-5 lead for DK. The visitors continued to dominate territory and possession, but instead of playing sound, straightforward basic rugby like their hosts, they opted for more complex build ups, ultimately slowing up the ball and predictably, leading nowhere.

The home side kept their heads and in a rare incursion into the DK half they scored a simple try. Spreading the ball quickly from a lineout they immediately had the DK back line scrambling. Second row Adam Glover, somehow eluding DK back row, took full advantage with a good turn of pace to score an excellent try near the posts, fly half Tom Goode converting for the home side to lead 7-5 after 32 minutes. Buoyed by this success, Derby enjoyed a further spell of pressure and Goode increased their lead after 37 minutes with a penalty making it 10-5. All in all it was a very disappointing score-line for DK, after dominating the half.

Half Time: DERBY 7 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 5

DK again attacked strongly at the onset of the second half but it was again Derby that added to their score, increasing their lead to 13-5 with a Tom Goode penalty after 45 minutes. The visitors redoubled their efforts, piling on pressure inside the Derby half. DK missed a simple try scoring opportunity on 48 minutes when a magnificent break from a maul by lock Ollie Shakespeare saw him power 30m through the cover up to within a metre of the Derby line but as he was tackled by the last defender, there was no one on his shoulder to take an easy scoring pass. DK finally got over the line, Andy McEwen “scoring” on 53 minutes only to find that the referee had blown for a DK scrum! Fortunately DK drove Derby back over their own line from the scrum and No 8 Andy McEwen was not to be denied again as he touched down a pushover try to bring DK within 3 points at 13-10 down after 54 minutes.

With a few injuries and changes in the pack DK lost some momentum and Derby pressed hard in the last quarter. Goode missed a penalty after an hour but they scored the decisive try after 70 minutes through left wing Craig Hughes who looked to be well marked but a rank poor tackle allowed him to cross in the corner to make it 18-10.

DK are back in league action at home against Peterborough next week. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 26th January - Midlands 1

Loughborough Students 55 - Dudley Kingswinford 19

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Carl Robinson, 11 Stefan Shillingford, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Wayne Millard. Reps: 16 Alex Francis, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Jordan Brookes.

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff and is not for the faint-hearted.

The DK lads were simply blown away by the sheer class of the students play in a torrid first half in which they conceded 6 tries. The college boys ran every ball at high pace and with great skill, their superb handling bordered on the miraculous at times! At one stage midway through the first half they scored four tries in ten minutes; it was simply all too much for a DK side that showed several enforced changes to the side that beat South Leicester last week. DK actually won the toss but unaccountably chose to play up the very pronounced slope and against a strong breeze. Considering who they were playing – an ultra fit and quick student’s side - this was akin to committing Hari Kari! The decision probably cost them at least 15 points.

Whilst one man doesn’t make a team, - and Loughborough have no less than five players in the final England Students squad - the Student’s fly half Steve Collins came as near as is possible to it, in a stunning virtuoso performance. A tiny fellow, (he looked about 8 stone wringing wet!) he orchestrated most of the students attacks, his brilliant running, passing and handling opened up gaps all over the field that were ruthlessly exploited. Suffice to say that when he left the field after a knock after 56 minutes, the students just did not look the same side; DK in fact “won” the second half 14-19 and dominated the rest of the game with 3 unanswered tries to retain a vestige of respectability. The student’s full back Grant Pointer also had an excellent game, running with pace and power. He kicked seven out of eight conversions and dropped a goal.

The DK pack were short of Prop Paul Coles and No 8 Tom McIntosh (both unavailable) and they were replaced by Wayne Millard and Andy McEwen. Stefan Shillingford made his league debut on the left wing in place of Ben Coles (also unavailable). Pete Stinton Jnr replaced Simon Fletcher (injured) at fly half. Colts scrum half Jordan Brookes was on the bench along with Neil Chivers and Al Francis. The DK side did their best under the circumstances and the front five in particular stuck to the task well. Second row Ben Connett showing good athleticism created one try with a 30m break and scored another with a neat interception. Ollie Shakespeare carried the ball well and Ian Langford was again superb on a day that the DK back row was under immense pressure for much of the time. For the DK backs it was for the most part, a damage limitation exercise with Tom Weaver and Jordan Brookes (replacement centre) showing great resolve in defence.

DK kicked off and were almost immediately 5-0 down. Student’s full back Grant pointer caught the ball, passed and was then on the end of a miss move to power over in the corner. The same player dropped a goal on 5 minutes to make it 8-0. DK seemed to rally well but were caught cold again when they left a “dog leg” gap in the centre. Student’s full back Grant Pointer made an incisive break to feed centre Jake Guestella for the try before adding the conversion for15-0 after 15 minutes. A poor defensive kick was run back at DK on 21 minutes culminating in student’s left wing Chris Smyth running in from 50 m to make it 20-0. Two minutes later Smyth scored again from a free flowing move started in the student’s 22, Pointer added the extras for 27-0. The students seemed unstoppable and when fly half Steve Collins broke brilliantly on 26 minutes to create yet another huge gap, flanker Dave Hughes was on hand to touch down the student’s fifth try, Pointer again converting for 34-0.

The students had their scrum half Jamie Hood yellow carded after 32 minutes for preventing the release of the ball and DK got a little respite until the Students ran in a sixth try in stoppage time. Fly half Steve Collins hoisted a pin point cross kick to second row Simon Pitfield who out jumped the cover to collect the ball and show a good turn of pace to run in under the posts from 25m. The reliable boot of Grant Pointer added two more points to make it 41-0.

Half Time: LOUGHBOROUGH STUDENTS 41 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

The students scored a seventh try in their first attack of the second half on 41 minutes. A superb pass from fly half Steve Collins literally fizzed out to left wing Chris Smyth whose 60m break and inside pass saw flanker Dave Hughes collect his second try, pointer converting for 48-0. Even up the slope the students were creating havoc and after 46 minutes their skipper and No 8 Dan Falvey charged down Pete Stinton Jnr’s desperate attempt to clear to score their eighth and final try, Grant Pointer adding his seventh conversion from eight attempts for a 55-0 scoreline.

The withdrawal of the student’s mercurial fly half Steve Collins on 56 minutes due to injury coincided with DK’s first real spell on concerted pressure in the game. After 57 minutes they pushed the students pack back over their goal line but before the ball could be touched down for a try, the students open side flanker Jamie Thompson attempted to kick the ball out of the scrum leaving the referee little option but to award DK a Penalty Try and a yellow card to the miscreant. Cameron Pimlow converted for 55-7. DK spent the remainder of the game attacking the student’s line and being rebuffed time after time until in the last minute of proper time Ben Connett broke from a maul covering 30m before sending in Cameron Pimlow for an unconverted try to make it 55-12. The visitors scored again with seconds left when Ben Connett cleverly intercepted a student’s attacking pass to canter in under the posts for the try. Cameron Pimlow converted to make the final score 55-19.

DK are away at Derby (Friendly) next Sat 02nd February. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 19th January - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 15 - South Leicester 5

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Carl Robinson, 11 Ben Coles, 10 Simon Fletcher, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Tom McIntosh, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Dan Shakespeare. Reps: 16 Alex Francis, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Pete Stinton Jnr.

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff.

The DK revival continues apace, coaches Shilly and Lockers managing to conjure up a second consecutive victory - DK’s third league win - from the ashes of their dire season to date. South Leicester, like Longton in DK’s last league match, were lying second in the table with nine wins from thirteen games and so are very much in the hunt for promotion to the national league. DK quickly recovered from a flawed start to control most of the game in terms of territory and possession and ran out well deserved winners.

DK still have some key players injured, namely Gareth Davies, Gareth Bown, Shaun Griffiths (all longish term) and Liam Reynolds. Left winger Ben Coles replaced Reynolds. Blindside Ian Langford is in the form of his life at present and was pretty much involved in everything DK attempted. Lock Ollie Shakespeare is one of DK’s most improved players this season, a fine pair of hands, superb in the lineout again and an unbelievable turn of pace for such a big, powerful guy. If he can just sort those dodgy kick offs out, he will look the real deal! Openside James Bullock won a few 50/50 balls on the ground and looked sharp. The backs performance was certainly much improved in terms of their line kicking and their tackling was first class, though the ball was still not being moved through the three-quarter line quickly enough to pose too many questions of the opposition, mainly through the inability on the day, to take and give the pass accurately at pace. Having said that, centre Carl Robinson had probably his best game for DK, always a threat on the break or half break and offloading well.

DK were caught cold from the kick off and found themselves 0-5 down inside the first minute. SL attacked DK’s kick off, lost the ball and then regained it near the DK 10m line. Quick hands saw SL full back Matt Clarke hit the line at pace and catch the DK rearguard on the wrong foot, sprinting through for a fine unconverted try and a perfect start for the visitors. Stung by this early reverse DK quickly got into their stride putting the SL defence under heavy pressure. A tremendous break from Carl Robinson set up a scoring opportunity but good cover defence from SL snuffed out the danger. Simon Fletcher eventually reduced the arrears to 3-5 after 19 minutes when SL were penalised under pressure.

DK huffed and puffed with a huge advantage in terms of territory and possession but the attacks were a little disjointed and lacked penetration, allowing SL to smother the danger time after time. Ollie Shakespeare made a stunning 30m break from a maul deep into the SL 22 after 35 minutes, distributing the ball perfectly to the backs outside him but then one pass to many saw the chance go begging.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3 SOUTH LEICESTER 5

SL threatened briefly at the onset of the second half but DK quickly resumed the offensive and battered the SL cover with a greater intensity than before, finally taking the lead on 54 minutes. Another excellent, quick ruck ball from the DK pack was moved right where full back Cameron Pimlow somehow managed to rescue a wretched pass - thrown behind him – with one hand, before quickly transferring the ball to skipper Ian Gowland who rampaged through the remnants of the SL cover to put DK 8-5 up with a flamboyant, trademark try.

DK had several further opportunities to increase their lead, but for the merest hint of hesitation, Ben Coles might have snapped up a clear interception opportunity on 64 minutes and a superb tackle from skipper Ian Gowland inside the SL 22 set up another clear chance after 69 minutes, a DK knock on rescuing the visitors. Ollie Shakespeare stole an opposition throw with five minutes remaining and DK the pack rolled forward ominously, but someone infringed in the process and was penalised. Finally in stoppage time and with DK still pressing hard on the SL line the visitors desperately tried to run the ball out of defence, a knock on saw scrum half Alan Mitchell swoop on the ball and move it quickly via Ian Langford to Tom Weaver who took the ball at pace to score in the corner. Simon Fletcher ended another good day at the office for DK by slotting the difficult conversion from the touchline.

DK are away at Loughborough Students next Sat 26th January. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

 

Saturday 12th January

Stourbridge 16 - Dudley Kingswinford 14

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Carl Robinson, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Simon Fletcher, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Dan Shakespeare. Reps: Paul Norris; Rob Chivers, Stefan Shillingford, Jordan Brooks, Pete Stinton Jnr

PLEASE NOTE: The match report printed below reflects the view of the writer only and may not necessarily reflect the views of the DKRFC management or coaching staff.

This hastily arranged fixture proved to be an entertaining and useful exercise for both sides. DK coaches Neil Shillingford and Mark Lockley were very keen for the side to play this week to get a further look at their playing squad prior to their important league fixture at home against South Leicester next Saturday. Though DK were unable to field their full league XV, with loan players Tom McIntosh and Paul Coles not featuring and both Shaun Griffiths and Gareth Bown are still resting after injury. Gareth Davies should also be available next week and hopefully all five will play.

DK led throughout the game only to lose it in the last five minutes as a result of a poor defensive kick that Stour ran back at them and scored a well crafted try in the corner to steal the game. In fairness the home side were marginally the better side overall, making fewer errors and defending well as DK threw everything at them towards the end. On the plus side DK showed great resolve and competed well throughout. There is still a hell of a lot of life in the old DK “dog” yet! However there are several key areas that need attention sooner rather than later. DK still need a little fine tuning in the backs where good possession and territory was wasted at times with some woeful distribution, crucially, when the Stour cover was stretched. Kicking out of hand was another area found wanting as DK’s poor line kicking more often than not failed to make touch and instead allowed Stour to counter very effectively at times. Finally, first up tackling from a few players was not up to scratch, luckily Si Fletcher, Carl Robinson, Tom Weaver and Cameron Pimlow especially, did brilliantly to repair the damage caused through the occasional missed tackle.

In the DK pack flanker James Bullock and prop Dan Shakespeare replaced Tom McIntosh, and Paul Coles whilst Ben Connett moved from No 8 to second row, Andy McEwen replacing Connett at No 8. The pack generally coped well with the changes with lineout specialists Ben Connett and Ollie Shakespeare in peerless form, though it was somewhat harder in the set scrums. The backs were no more than average in attack but centres Tom Weaver, Carl Robinson and the richly talented full back Cameron Pimlow were rock like in defence. There were also excellent cameo performances from colts scrum half Jordan Brooks and fellow colt Stefan Shillingford who deputised on the left wing. Both lads were highly impressive.

DK were fast out of the traps and scored a brilliant try in the first minute of the game an accurate long pass from Simon Fletcher near halfway put Liam Reynolds away and the left winger made good yardage before being halted. There were then three of four very quick rucks from which the ball was spread both left and right at dizzying speed before Cameron Pimlow took the ball at pace to swerve inside the fragmented Stour cover to score a stunning try under the posts. Si Fletcher added the extras for DK to lead 0-7. DK continued to pour forward but in their first real attack of the game Stourbridge got right back into the game with a catch and drive from a lineout on 8 minutes, No 8 Duncan White powering over for the unconverted score to make it 5-7.

Si Fletcher was wide with a 12th minute penalty for DK a few minutes before an almighty brawl broke out involving most of the thirty players and epitomising the extremely competitive nature of the game. After the referee and touch judges had brought order and conferred, yellow cards were issued to two Stourbridge players for violent conduct, one to last week’s hero at Cambridge, fly half Dan Lavery and one to their blindside flanker. Against Stour’s 13 men DK were strangely lethargic and let several opportunities go begging through unforced errors and once when attacking strongly on the home line scrum half Alan Mitchell was penalised for “over enthusiastic” rucking. DK did though manage a spectacular try after 25 minutes when skipper Ian Gowland found himself in space on the right wing 55m out. He showed the cover a clean pair of heels before chipping over the full back and collecting the ball on the bounce to score a superb try. Si Fletcher again added the conversion for DK to go 5-14 ahead. With Stour back to their full complement of players, they put the visitors under heavy pressure for the first time in the game. Dan Lavery reduced the arrears to 8-14 with a 34th minute penalty and DK did well to repel several strong thrusts from the home side before half time and could have gone in further ahead with what might well have proved a winning score but Si Fletcher’s difficult penalty chance in stoppage time drifted agonisingly wide.

Half Time: STOURBRIDGE DEVELOPMENT XV 8 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14

DK suffered a body blow with the loss of their inspirational blindside flanker Ian Langford just after half time with a bang to the back of the head. Rob Chivers replaced Langford, but DK came under increasing pressure as they struggled to adapt. Dan Lavery brought Stour 3 points closer with a 50th minute penalty to make it 11-14 and for the next 10 minutes DK were floundering. They then lost replacement Paul Norris to a yellow card after 67 minutes. The prop looked none too happy about it, possibly a case of mistaken identity! DK conjured up a couple of miraculous escapes but they survived. Back to full strength DK more than held their own and were looking good for the win until another injudicious touch kick ended up down the throat of a Stour centre. Ground was made through the middle before home fly half Dan Lavery threaded a ball through the DK rearguard for right wing Ollie Bache to touch down in the corner and seal the result.

DK are at home to South Leicester next Sat 19th January. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 5th January - Midlands 1

Longton 3 - Dudley Kingswinford 12

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Cameron Pimlow, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Carl Robinson, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Cameron Pimlow, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Ben Connett, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Paul Coles . Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 neil Chivers, 18 Ben Coles. 

PLEASE NOTE: THE MATCH REPORT PRINTED BELOW REFLECTS THE VIEW OF THE WRITER ONLY AND MAY NOT NECCESARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE DKRFC MANAGEMENT OR COACHING STAFF.

This was a great start for DK’s new 1st XV coaches, Neil Shillingford and Mark Lockley. Shilly and Lockers were both excellent players for the club at senior level and have taken up the challenge in what has proved to be an extremely difficult season to date. Lockers, a DK man throughout a distinguished playing career, was DK skipper and full back as far back as 1988 and again (as a prop!) in 1998. Shilly, a local lad had an equally distinguished playing career with Kings Norton before being persuaded to “come home” to DK in 1998. One thing is certain; these two uncompromising characters will demand and no doubt get 100% commitment from the DK squad.

Before today’s game Longton were lying in 2nd place in the division having won nine of their twelve league games and are still very much in contention for promotion. It was DK’s first visit to Longton’s impressive new facilities at Trentham Fields, their imposing new clubhouse, when completed, could almost double as Longton Town Hall! A far cry from dear old Roughcote Lane!

Shaun Griffiths returned to the second row for DK to partner Ollie Shakespeare whilst Ben Connett played at No 8 in place of flu victim Layton Wilkinson (isn’t he old enough to qualify for a free jab?). DK are still without Gareth Davies and Tom Weaver replaced him in the centre. Full back James Lloyd Jones is injured and Cameron Pimlow replaced him. The DK pack generally had the better of the Longton eight, taking a couple against the head and winning the lineout contest hands down with Ben Connett outstanding. Ian Langford had a massive game in the back row and was the best forward on the field by a long way. In the backs eighteen year old full back Cameron Pimlow was outstanding. His pace and superb defence had the DK faithful making favourable comparisons with Steve Smart, praise indeed!

DK began brightly and though playing up the slope and against the wind they took the game to the home side, playing with vigour and determination. This seemed to set the pattern for the game, though Longton had their moments, the DK boys always looked as if they wanted it more. It was Longton however that took a 3-0 lead after 12 minutes when right wing Ollie Pointon kicked a penalty. DK however continued to impress against the elements and were rewarded with a fine try after 33 minutes. A swift, incisive attack from halfway saw Cameron Pimlow cut through the Longton cover at pace to send in Carl Robinson at the corner. Simon Fletcher’s magnificent conversion from the touchline giving DK a 3-7 lead.

DK tight head prop Alex Francis was yellow carded for persistent offside after 37 minutes but there was to be no let up in the DK effort as they completed the half in some comfort despite being a man down.

Half Time: LONGTON 3 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7

The home side tried hard to get back into the game after the break but there was no way through a mean DK rearguard. After weathering the Longton effort DK were soon back on top and another score looked imminent until they lost Shaun Griffiths to a knee injury and then hooker Adam Blackford to a yellow card after 67 minutes for killing the ball.

Again, losing a man did not faze DK as they continued to press the home side. They scored a second game clinching try after 76 minutes whilst still a man short. Ian Langford drove through a couple of tackles near the touchline then neatly chipped over a couple of would be tacklers before reclaiming the ball. From the ensuing ruck the ball was moved swiftly out to skipper Ian Gowland on the right wing and in space, to sprint in for the try and secure DK’s first away win of the season.

DK have no league game next weekend are trying to organise a fixture.

They are at home to South Leicester (L) on Sat 19th January. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 15th December - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 22 - Kenilworth 23

 

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Carl Robinson, 12 Mike Jones, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Ben Dawson, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Ian Langford, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Andy McEwan, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Paul Coles, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Alex Francis. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Pete Booth, 18 Cameron Pimlow. 

Mark Wilson announced his resignation as DK’s head coach prior to the kick off against Kenilworth. His task this season has been daunting to say the least. DK have had to use 49 players in the first team to date this season compared to 34 for the whole of last season! This situation has been caused in the main by an unprecedented run of injuries and sadly Mark has decided to call it a day.

It is well worth reflecting on Mark’s tremendous overall record of success as DK coach. In his first spell at Heathbrook covering five seasons from 1997-2002 DK won Midlands 2 in 1997-8, finished 3rd in Midlands 1 in 1998-9, and reached the NPI Cup Final at Twickenham in the same year. Won Midlands 1and the North Midlands Cup in 1999-2000 In their first season in National 3 North (2000-2001) DK finished a creditable 6th and then, incredibly, runners up in 2001-2, losing the playoff for promotion to National 2 at Launceston. Mark then spent 2 years coaching at a higher level (Pertemps Bees) before returning to DK for the 2005-6 season. The following season DK finished runners up in Midlands 1, narrowly losing the playoff to Beverley for a quick return to National 3 North. This is a quite staggering record of achievement, for which Mark can be rightly proud. We wish him well.

After scoring three cracking tries and being 19-0 up in the first quarter, DK unaccountably fell apart for most of the rest of the game, allowing Kenilworth to snatch a deserved win in the fourth minute of stoppage time. It was a disappointing end to a game in which DK had showed great early promise, but all credit to Kenilworth they managed to get their act together and were the better side overall. There were another 6 changes this week in DK’s line-up. In the backs Carl Robinson came into the centre for Gareth Davies and Aussie Ben Dawson made his debut at fly half as Tom Bissell was unavailable. In the pack Andy McEwen came into the back row in place of James Bullock and last week’s front row was totally replaced by Paul Coles at tight head, Adam Blackford (returning from injury) at hooker and Al Francis at loose head. The bench was made up of John Fallon, Pete Booth and new signing Cameron Pimlow a Worcester Academy player who came on at fly half in the second half and played well especially in defence.

Though DK did not play well as a team several individuals stood out. In the pack the front row worked hard with Paul Coles having a particularly good game and Adam Blackford back from injury lasted the pace well. The lineout was solid with Ben Connett and Ollie Shakespeare in dominating form. The back row met their match against a very good Kenilworth back three but Tom McIntosh was outstanding and was DK’s Man of the Match for a battling non-stop performance. The DK backs were up against a very talented Kenilworth unit who breached the cover on numerous occasions but fortunately for the home side they squandered several opportunities. Full back James Lloyd Jones though had a very good game, safe hands and always looking to take on the opposition. His superb break laid on DK’s second try for skipper Ian Gowland. Scrum half Alan Mitchell had an excellent game with several incisive breaks during the match

Kenilworth had the first opportunity to score but fly half Chris Brown was wide with a penalty when DK were offside. A fine break from skipper Ian Gowland preceded DK’s first try after 10 minutes. He was bundled into touch but DK stole the Kenilworth lineout and Adam Blackford had a dart at the line that was thwarted but from the quickly re-cycled ball big Ollie Shakespeare was unstoppable from 5 metres out. Ian Gowland added the conversion for DK to lead 7-0. With Kenilworth temporarily flustered DK scored a superb second try on 15 minutes. A loose defensive kick ahead from Kenilworth was fielded by DK fly half Ben Dawson who threw a long pass infield to full back James Lloyd-Jones who proceeded to carve through the Kenilworth cover for 50 metres at great pace before sending in skipper Ian Gowland for a memorable unconverted try to put DK 12-0 up.

Kenilworth were now looking a little panic stricken and when Ollie Shakespeare tore free from a maul inside the Kenilworth 22 to send in Tom McIntosh for DK’s third try after 19 minutes things looked very grim for the Warwickshire side. Ian Gowland added the conversion for DK to lead 19-0 and seemingly on their way to a handsome victory and more importantly a lifeline. Kenilworth belatedly began to get a little ball and put on some pressure though a decision to opt for a scrum in front of the posts after being awarded a penalty backfired badly as DK disrupted their scrum ball and won back possession. The visitors were not to be denied however and familiar errors began to creep into DK’s game. From a ruck inside the DK 22 the ball was moved quickly wide to left winger Andy Whitehall who squeezed in at the corner on 33 minutes. DK then in first half stoppage time crucially squandered a couple of chances that could in hindsight, have won the game. Firstly Ian Gowland missed a kick at goal and then from another penalty fly half Ben Dawson missed a simple touch for a catch and drive opportunity deep inside the Kenilworth 22.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19 KENILWORTH 7

Chris Brown pulled back another three points for Kenilworth with a 42nd minute penalty making it 19-10 and on 46 minutes put themselves right back in the game with a converted try. The Kenilworth pack provided the platform storming up to the DK 10m line before releasing quick ball that left the DK cover floundering as skipper and inside centre Pete Roberts cut through for the try to make it 19-15.

A catalogue of basic errors had reduced DK from a promising early performance to the edge of another disaster as Kenilworth cranked up their efforts. The visitors won a lot of ball and cut through the DK rearguard almost at will only to knock on or pass forward at crucial times. It seemed as if their profligacy would cost them the game when Ian Gowland’s 71st minute penalty put DK two scores ahead at 22-15 but when Chris Brown made it 22-18 in stoppage time it gave Kenilworth a glimmer of hope and a final catastrophic, black comedy of errors from the home side near the DK 22 saw the ball hacked on over the DK line for Kenilworth hooker Matt Davies to gleefully touch down in the dying seconds leaving DK stunned.

DK’s next First XV game is away at Longton (league) on Saturday January 5th. KO 2.15pm.

Saturday 1st December - Midlands 1

Scunthorpe 24 Dudley Kingswinford 8

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Ian Gowland (Capt), 13 Mike Jones, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Tom McIntosh, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 John Fallon, 2 Pete Booth, 1 Wayne Millard. Reps: 16 Paul Coles, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Carl Robinson.

DK’s relief at recording their first win of the season last week proved to be short lived as they came down to earth with a bump at Scunthorpe. The home side who are second from bottom of Midlands 1, fully deserved the precious points as they made far fewer errors and generally managed to retain most of the ball they won. Ollie Shakespeare and Ben Connett dominated the lineout for DK and the visitors were much the sharper side in the loose, winning enough good ball to have won the game twice over, but they gave the ball away time after time throughout the game by committing countless unforced errors, often when in promising positions. Despite this, the game was a pretty close one and the score line does not really reflect the game at all.

DK only made one change to last weeks team with Wayne Millard replacing Al Francis at loose head. Paul Coles, Andy McEwen and Carl Robinson made up the bench. Though the result was disappointing to say the least, the effort from the DK lads was excellent though poor discipline at times cost them points after backchat. Ollie Shakespeare was awarded DK Coaches Man of the Match for the first time. The big fella had a tremendous game, using his size and weight to great effect and making many hard yards during the game, long may it continue! The pack was again in excellent form driving forward but too many unforced errors cost them dearly. The backs never got going, missed opportunities to kick for position with the elements first half and poor distribution skills effectively blunting their cutting edge.

DK were 5-0 down after only 2 minutes and in that time they had already lost possession no less than three times! Scunthorpe’s danger man left winger Rewiti Vaimoso fastened onto a loose ball stepped inside his man to give centre Tom Foster an easy run in for a 5-0 lead. DK soon hit back and Tom Bissell made it 5-3 on 8 minutes after missing a 6th minute opportunity. DK won adequate possession and territory but their handling and retention of the ball in contact was pretty abysmal, often handing the home side hard won possession on a plate. They paid the price for their profligacy in not turning possession into points when Scunthorpe full back and skipper Tim Robinson made it 8-3 with a 32nd minute penalty. Scunthorpe at this stage were very much there for the taking, only Vaimoso and veteran prop Andy Fish gave DK any real cause for concern, but despite having the lion’s share of ball and the strong breeze at their backs, DK finished the half 8-3 down, a situation all of their own making for not making the best of the conditions and shoddy handling.

Half Time: SCUNTHORPE 8 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

DK pressed hard at the onset of the second half but a marvellous kick from home full back and skipper Tim Robinson found touch 5 metres from the DK line. From the ensuing play DK were penalised but Robinson was wide with a 47th minute penalty. The referee finally spotted Scunthorpe No 8 Mick Dunk preventing release of the ball and he was yellow carded on54 minutes. DK though failed to take advantage and Tim Robinson sent Scunthorpe 2 scores clear with a 59th minute penalty. DK scrum half Alan Mitchell was yellow carded on 63 minutes for attempting to remove an inert Scunthorpe forward, lying on the ball but infuriated by the decision DK’s 14 men tore up field and drove a loose scrum 20m for Paul Coles to touch down and reduce the arrears to 11-8 after 67 minutes. Tim Robinson’s 69th minute penalty made it 14-8 to Scunthorpe and another one for hands in the ruck on 71 minutes saw the home side increase the lead to 17-8 but DK were still very much in the game until they were reduced to 13 men when Paul Coles was yellow carded after 73 minutes, again for attempting to clear out yet another Scunthorpe body illegally lying on the ball.

The penalties were pretty much all one way now as DK continued to incur the wrath of an increasingly agitated referee. Tim Robinson surprisingly missed two further opportunities on 77 and 79 minutes but not to worry, as the farcical, slapstick events of the last minute unfolded the home side were handed a further seven points following an unbelievable decision by the referee as DK centre Gareth Davies was tackled off the ball in his pursuit to defend his own line allowing the Scunthorpe attack to capitalise.

DK have no game next Saturday. The next game is at home against Kenilworth on Saturday 15th December. KO 2.00 pm.

Saturday 24th November - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 12 - Newport 3

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Mike Jones, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Tom McIntosh, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Al Francis, 2 Pete Booth, 1 John Fallon. Reps: 16 Wayne Millard, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Dave Hadkiss.

Hallelujah!!! DK have won a game! Their first league victory since April was certainly no classic but richly deserved nevertheless. Newport had previously won four league games this season including league leaders Loughborough (the students only defeat of the season to date), so this was always going to be a tough call against their old rivals who included former DK favourite Marc Lindsay on the right wing. After a spell of promising form and being very close to winning on several occasions, DK’s last couple of games had ended in shambolic defeats as confidence ebbed, but all credit to Coach Mark Wilson, skipper Ian Gowland and the players for restoring a bit of pride, getting the bit between their teeth and refusing to lie down. A win at Scunthorpe next week would further boost DK and lift them off the bottom as their point’s difference is 50 points better.

Allan Mitchell was back at scrum half for DK as was Tom McIntosh after injury and Ollie Shakespeare came into the second row in place of Sam Herrington. For once DK kept their foot on the gas for the full eighty minutes never allowing Newport a sniff. It wasn’t pretty but the DK pack nullified the larger Newport eight by literally running them into the ground and turning over the visitor’s ball on numerous occasions. Fly half Tom Bissell was in great goal kicking form, his four penalties including two superb long range efforts, won the game for DK. It was however the pack that provided the platform for the win, totally outplaying Newport in the loose with the back row back to its best. Ollie Shakespeare and Ben Connett reigned supreme in the lineout. The front row of John Fallon Pete Booth and Al Francis/Wayne Millard did superbly well against tough opposition in the set. John Fallon was DK Coaches Man of the Match for the second time in three weeks for another tremendous, inspirational performance especially in the loose where a couple of his turnovers were right out of the top drawer. “Judge” Fallon is reputedly only 30; he must have led a hard life! This was very much a forward orientated game and chances for the backs were limited but Allan Mitchell, Gareth Davies and Mike Jones were outstanding.

It was apparent from the opening whistle that DK were very much up for the match, immediately taking the game to Newport whose forwards seemed a little unsettled by the pace of the action and soon began to infringe. A good break by John Fallon from a maul on 14 minutes saw Newport penalised but Tom Bissell’s kick drifted just wide. DK kept up the pressure and when Newport were penalised again on 20 minutes Tom Bissell made no mistake to put DK 3-0 up. Ben Connett did well to bundle the Newport wing into touch following a long defensive punt from Gareth Davies. Following the throw Newport were again penalised and centre Neil Weston received a yellow card for preventing release of the ball. Tom Bissell kicked the penalty to put DK 6-0 ahead after 28 minutes.

DK’s focus and sheer effort kept Newport penned inside their half and very much on the back foot; it was not long before they were awarded another penalty, again dispatched skilfully by Tom Bissell from way out on the 10m line for DK to increase their lead to 9-0 on 36 minutes. A poor pass from a scrum inside the 22 put DK under a little pressure but Tomasi Tanumi the Newport fly half was well wide with an attempted dropped goal. Tom Bissell then put DK 12-0 ahead just into stoppage time with another monster penalty from fully 45m.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12 NEWPORT 0

Things got a little heated in the front row early on, for some reason and oddly coinciding with the arrival for DK of Wayne”Bosher”Millard at loose head, but things soon settled down again. Newport had a brief flurry and scrum half Jamie Simpson opened their account with a penalty in front of the posts to make it 12-3, he had missed a more difficult chance a minute or two earlier. This proved to be a mere blip and DK were soon back on the offensive. Great play from John Fallon created a couple of turnovers then a 54th minute penalty but this time Tom Bissell was just wide with the kick.

Gareth Davies created a break out of the DK 22 for skipper Ian Gowland who then hacked it on, eventually resulting in catch and drive opportunity near the Newport line but despite going close the visitors managed to scramble the ball away. Except for a couple of risky, quickly tapped penalties in their 22, DK were very much in control and Newport’s frustration boiled over when centre Neil Weston received a red card for fighting DK’s Allan Mitchell (2nd offence) Allan Mitchell received a yellow card . Though there were 7 minutes of stoppage time DK were camped in the Newport half for most of the time with Gareth Davies almost snatching a try in the dying seconds.

DK are at away at Scunthorpe (League) next Saturday KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 17th November - EDF Energy Intermediate Cup

Bedford Athletic 35 - Dudley Kingswinford 15

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Mike Jones, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Dave Hadkiss, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ben Connett, 4 James Herrington, 3 Al Francis, 2 Pete Booth, 1 John Fallon. Reps: 16 Neil Chivers, 17 Paul Norris, 18 Layton Wilkinson, 19 Alan Mitchell.

The old cliché – “Now we are out of the cup we can concentrate on the league” had a poignant ring to it as next week’s home league game against Newport sees DK almost at the point of no return in terms of their survival in Midlands 1. If the cup game against Ath was seen as a welcome break from the trials and tribulations of league rugby and perhaps as a chance to put a few things right, this comprehensive beating from an improving Ath side whose abrasive front five took a stranglehold on the game, only served to deepen the gloom descending on Heathbrook. There were however a few positives to take out of the game, DK just need to reduce the error count, especially the unforced ones, to give themselves an even chance of survival

DK again made several changes from last week. Al Francis started at tight head and James Herrington in the second row in place of Ian Langford who reverted to his familiar role on the blindside flank. Andy McEwen moved across to No 8. The backs had skipper Ian Gowland on the right wing and Liam Reynolds on the left with Mike Jones partnering Gareth Davies in the centre. Dave Hadkiss was at scrum half with Tom Bissell at outside half. The bench was made up of Neil Chivers(BR), Layton Wilkinson(BR),Paul Norris(FR) and Alan Mitchell(SH). Whilst the front five were again up against it this week, the back row, with Ian Langford back in tow, was tremendous, albeit mainly in defence. James Lloyd-Jones was the pick of the backs setting up the first of DK’s tries and scoring the other, earning the DK Coaches Man of the Match accolade for the first time.

Ath controlled the opening exchanges and went 0-6 ahead through two Clinton Prinsloo(FH) penalties. DK gradually came into the game more and a Tom Bissell penalty after 10 minutes made it 3-6. DK then shocked their hosts with a fine try after 20 minutes. A tremendous burst from No 8 Andy McEwen split the Ath cover, his pass to James Lloyd-Jones coming in at pace and at an acute angle saw the full back put in Gareth Davies at the posts. Tom Bissell converted and DK were 6-10 up. A controversial penalty from Prinsloo on 25 minutes when the ball appeared to sail wide of the posts was awarded though the touch judges begged to differ! This made it 9-10 and DK’s luck was out again just on half time when Ath's outstanding flyhalf Clinton Prinsloo broke through DK's defence to score a fine solo try which he converted. and the home side went in 16-10 up at the break.

Half Time: BEDFORD ATHLETIC 16 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10

Ath scored another try early on in the second half when the ball bounced awkwardly for the DK defenders and straight into Jo Hunt hands. The wing touched down with Prinsloo adding the conversion for 10-23. DK were up against it and another unforced error midway through the half led to another Ath try as a wayward DK pass was hacked downfield and over the line for Ath winger Joe Hunt to claim his second try and increase Ath’s lead to 10-30.

DK rallied briefly when Layton Wilkinson erupted from a maul inside his own half and fed James Lloyd Jones who raced fully 50 metres outstripping the home side's defence for DK’s second (unconverted) try making it 15-30. Ath had the last word when  left winger Ryan Spencer drove over on the blindside following a 5 metre scrum to make it 35-15.

At least the slightly longer term future looks decidedly bright for DK as the Colts comprehensively trounced their near neighbours Stourbridge by a whopping 51points to 5 in the 3rd round of the English Clubs Colts Knockout Cup to earn local bragging rights for the next few months. Lockers and Shilly and their band of helpers have put together a very talented side who were simply too strong and quick for their old rivals.

DK are at home to Newport (League) KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 10th November - Midlands 1

Kenilworth 31 - Dudley Kingswinford 3

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Warren Port, 13 Carl Robinson, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Ian Mitchell, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 James Bullock, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Ian Langford, 3 Paul Norris, 2 Pete Booth, 1 John Fallon. Reps: 16 Al Francis, 17 Shaun Griffiths, 18 Mike Jones.

DK’s nightmare season continues with this their ninth consecutive league defeat. In their previous three league games against the top three sides in the division, DK had shown a marked improvement and might easily have won all three with a modicum of luck, but on this occasion after being only 12-3 down with 10 minutes left they collapsed and were well beaten by a resurgent Kenilworth side that, after a poor start, has won four games on the bounce to reach mid-table security.

The most disappointing aspect from DK’s point of view was the manner of their defeat. Kenilworth are a decent side but certainly not any better than Loughborough, South Leicester or Longton. The home side will rarely have had so many turnover balls handed to them as they did on Saturday, DK must have coughed it up at least 25 times in the loose during the game with a bewildering mixture of unforced errors knock-ons and just sheer incompetence at times. This allied to Uruguayan referee Mr Eduardo Blengioe’s “interesting” interpretation of the breakdown area, rendered DK almost totally ineffective in the loose for much of the game. No real complaints on that score though – you have to play to the referee.

Why were DK’s normally reliable pack and especially their back row so ineffective in the loose? One possible and partial explanation is that their prime back row Destroyer-in-Chief Ian Langford was buried in the second row and hard as he tried - out of position, his inspirational play and particular defensive talents were desperately required in a back row that frankly, looked a little lost without him. DK were without a couple of their new signings Dave Hadkiss and Sam Herrington and Tom McIntosh is still injured. Gareth Davies returned to the centre in place of Karl Lockley and skipper Ian Gowland was on the left wing in place of Adam Conniff. Paul Norris started at loose head. John Fallon was named DK Coaches Man of the Match for a spirited performance despite being under pressure in the tight; he was one of the few DK forwards to carry the ball effectively. The backs all tackled bravely with senior players Allan Mitchell, Pete Stinton, Warren Port and Gareth Davies especially prepared to put their bodies on the line.

Both sides looked eager to run the ball from the start but it soon became apparent that DK were going to struggle in both tight and loose. Despite having their loose head prop Neil Collett yellow carded after 14 minutes the Kenilworth pack pressed strongly and hooker Matt Davies was driven over from a penalty catch and drive to put the home side 5-0 up after17 minutes. The home side kept up the pressure aided and abetted to a great degree by an alarming number of errors and turnovers from DK. It was no surprise when they increased their lead after 26 minutes. Kenilworth’s impressive outside centre James Hersey broke the DK line to send in Rupert (yes Rupert!) Cooper for an easy try. Fly half Chris Brown converted for 12-0. Two tries down against 14 men did not auger well for DK but though the visitors did not really improve much, Kenilworth, despite their fine start, lost their impetus and the score remained at 12-0 until the break.

Half Time: KENILWORTH 12 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

The onset of the second half saw DK putting a bit of real pressure on the home side for the first time in the game. Unfortunately their set scrum was all but disintegrating at this stage and good positions were lost as scrums were constantly wheeled. Pete Stinton Jnr kicked a 62nd minute penalty for DK to make it 12-3 but this only served to awaken Kenilworth from their self-imposed lethargy and they hit DK with 3 tries and 19 points in the last 10 minutes.

Intense pressure and excellent re-cycling of the ball saw right wing Luke Brown over in the corner. Chris Brown converted for 19-3 after 70 minutes. Three minutes later Kenilworth struck again, this time from deep with left wing Andy Whitehall running in the try though there looked to be at least a couple of forward passes, unseen by the referee, in the movement. Chris Brown converted from the touchline and Kenilworth were out of sight at 26-3. With DK down and out for the count, Kenilworth scored a final try on 77 minutes, running a penalty from 30m out replacement back Jez Noon held the scoring pass for a final 31-3 scoreline.

DK are away to Bedford Athletic (EDF Cup – 2nd Round) KO 2pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 3rd November - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 16 - Longton 18

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Warren Port, 13 Karl Lockley, 12 Carl Robinson, 11 Adam Connif, 10 Pete Stinton Jnr, 9 Dave Hadkiss, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Sam Herrington, 3 Alex Francis, 2 Pete Booth, 1 John Fallon. Reps: 16 Paul Norris, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Allan Mitchell.

DK’s dismal run of form continues. A record eighth consecutive league defeat has left them rooted to the bottom of the table and needing a minor miracle to survive, though for the third week running and against another top side in the division, they could quite easily have won the game with a little more luck and self belief. The game was effectively lost in the first 16 minutes with shoddy passing and missed tackles handing the visitors a 0-12 lead from which, try as they might, the home side were unable recover. Longton then had to defend for long periods especially in the second half but they did so effectively leaving the DK lads ruing what might have been.

Injuries to Ian Gowland, Gareth Bown and Tom McIntosh saw Adam Connif on the left wing, Pete Stinton Jnr at fly half and James Bullock on the open side flank. Prop Paul Norris a very promising signing from Moseley, Andy McEwen and Allan Mitchell made up the bench. The pack again played very well and had the edge over a well drilled Longton eight in the loose though it was harder work in the tight. Excellent games from John Fallon, Ben Connett and Sam Herrington in the front five and the back row were again superb. Ian Langford was named DK Coaches Man of the Match for a prodigious effort even by his standards, in attack and especially in defence. In the backs the mercurial Dave Hadkiss made several good breaks from scrum half whilst his half back partner Pete Stinton Jnr provided a steadying influence with a couple of well struck penalties and a neat dropped goal after DK’s horrific opening. Carl Robinson oozed class in the centre and his superb break set up Ian Langford’s try. His centre partner young Karl Lockley also showed some nice touches.

DK gave themselves a mountain to climb early on when fullback James Lloyd Jones was given a couple of absolutely atrocious passes. Unsurprisingly both were knocked on. From the first one DK were put under intense pressure which resulted in a penalty which Longton fullback Tony Wheat missed. DK were not as fortunate with the second when Longton quickly moved the ball wide to left wing Chris Tennuci who showed the DK cover a clean pair of heels as he scorched through for an unconverted try on 8 minutes to put the visitors 0-5 up.

The score unsettled DK and Tenucci’s pace led indirectly to Longton’s second try after 16 minutes. Receiving the ball in space wide out and inside his own half the winger again cut far too easily through the home defences, he was hauled down just short but Longton set up a rolling maul from which lock forward Richard Thompson was driven over. Tony Wheat converted and Longton were 0-12 up. DK responded with a Pete Stinton Jnr penalty on 19 minutes to make it 3-12 then, as DK cranked up the pressure, Pete Stinton Jnr was again on target, this time with a smartly taken dropped goal after 21 minutes making it 6-12. The rest of the half was spent mainly in midfield with defences well on top.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 6 LONGTON 12

Tony Wheat kicked Longton 6-15 ahead with what proved to be a crucial 45th minute penalty when what seemed like half the DK team were offside but DK hit back a minute later with an excellent try. Pete Stinton Jnr put Carl Robinson away down the right hand side; the centre broke the Longton line with a searing break and was almost up to the Longton goal line before giving a scoring inside pass to supporting flanker Ian Langford. Pete Stinton Jnr converted and DK were right back in the game at 13-15. Though struggling with their line out throws DK were nevertheless pressing hard at this stage and Longton were distinctly rattled when Pete Stinton Jnr put the home side ahead 16-15 with a 58th minute penalty. A great run out of defence and hack on from second row Sam Herrington saw DK again attacking on the Longton line but a penalty ended their hopes of a further score.

Things went drastically wrong for DK in the last quarter. Pete Stinton Jnr missed a penalty to increase DK’s lead on 67 minutes and was then very harshly yellow carded for handling in the ruck. He was on his feet and had hands on the ball well before any ruck had formed. The penalty should have been awarded to DK for holding on. Replacement prop Paul Norris on for Al Francis pulled off a spectacular tackle to prevent a certain Longton score but it was all in vain as Tony Wheat slotted a 74th minute penalty to snatch a late 16-18 lead and ultimately victory for the visitors

DK are at away at Kenilworth next Saturday. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 27th October - Midlands 1

South Leicester 10 - Dudley Kingswinford  8

Dudley Kingswinford:15 James Lloyd-Jones, 14 Warren Port, 13 Karl Lockley, 12 Carl Robinson, 11 Ian Gowland (Capt), 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 Tom McIntosh, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ben Connett, 4 Sam Herrington, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Pete Booth, 1 Al Francis.  Reps:16 John Fallon, 17 James Bullock, 18 Dave Hadkiss.

DK are still searching for that elusive first league win of the season. Despite taking the game to their hosts for long periods, they were just unable to put enough points on the board for the win. The DK faithful should not have to wait too much longer though, this new look DK side could and perhaps should have got a result here, but unforced errors, especially in the lineout and critical attacking areas -a final scoring pass went astray on two occasions - cost them the game. As it was SL scored an admittedly superb individual long range try from their own goal line whilst DK squandered several easier opportunities to score and were unable to convert their kicks at goal though Gareth Bown was desperately unlucky to see one worthy effort rebound off a post.

There were no less than nine changes to DK’s line-up against Loughborough Students last week, plus several positional changes. DK brought in James Lloyd-Jones at fullback, Warren Port on the wing, Karl Lockley in the centre and Gareth Bown at fly half. Ian Langford and Layton Wilkinson returned to the back row, Sam Herrington came into the second row whilst Dan Shakespeare and Al Francis returned to the front row. DK’s new boys James Lloyd-Jones, Carl Robinson and Dave Hadkiss (all from Stourbridge) and Tom McIntosh and Sam Herrington from Moseley have all contributed hugely to DK’s improved form and will no doubt have a big part to play in turning the club’s fortunes around in the league games to come. However it was old stalwart Layton Wilkinson who was adjudged DK’s Man of the Match, his tremendous driving runs kept DK on the front foot for most of the game with one of the home supporters likening him to “a one man wrecking ball”! Fellow back rowers Tom McIntosh and Ian Langford were also in great form. James Lloyd Jones was the pick of the back line with a confident and assured performance throughout.

The sides had the honour of a Kiwi official refereeing this game, for DK it seemed a somewhat dubious honour in the early part of the game with a penalty count of 9 to 1 against at one stage, to be compounded by the farcical yellow carding of fly half Gareth Bown after 17 minutes, apparently for playing the ball on the floor. Gareth was on his feet desperately trying to relieve a South player of the ball who was clinging on to it for dear life!! An atrocious decision, it was a clear penalty for DK, which as it was in the home 22 would probably have changed the result.

South fly half Mark Lord put the home side 3-0 up with a penalty after 8 minutes, he had missed another a minute earlier. A very promising DK attack on 9 minutes came to nothing when Allan Mitchell was penalised for injudicious use of the boot. The game was being constantly interrupted by the referee’s whistle and DK had to dig deep after the patently unfair yellow carding of Gareth Bown but they survived and actually came close to scoring on a couple of occasions despite being down to 14 men.

Bizarrely, DK conceded what turned out to be the decisive score after 35 minutes whilst pressing hard on South’s goal line. The ball squirted out of the ruck to be snapped up by a South forward, DK were short of players on the open side and the South backs exploited this skilfully by moving the ball quickly wide to winger Mark Thomas who ran from his own line the length of the pitch, managing to skirt or sidestep several defenders to score a fine individual try at the posts. Mark Lord converted for South to lead 10-0, a little against the run of play although DK might have conceded another try just before half time. Skipper Ian Gowland’s attempt at a drop goal from at least 50m out (?*!), lost DK possession and a knock on in their 22 gave South an unexpected attacking opportunity near the DK line. Fortunately the pack managed to turn over the ball and the half ended without further mishap.

Half Time: SOUTH LEICESTER 10 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

DK laid siege to the South line at the restart and Gareth Bown kicked a penalty on 41 minutes when the home side ventured offside. South flanker Mike March was yellow carded after 45 minutes for killing the ball as the home side came under increasing pressure. DK cranked it up but then let two golden opportunities go begging. Firstly what should have been a try scoring pass was forward and minutes later what should have been another try scoring pass was flung into touch!

The pressure though was unrelenting and despite South’s sterling defensive efforts, DK scored a deserved if somewhat overdue try after 54 minutes. They had driven at South’s line a couple of times but had been repelled before Gareth Bown’s powerful running dive at the line saw him over the line but held up. Ian Langford took advantage of the situation to touch down wide out for an unconverted try. Both sides then had their moments as they strove for the win. DK constantly got into good positions in the South half but their lineout let them down on several occasions on their own throw, severely cramping their attacking options. In stoppage time DK had one last penalty opportunity but it was a difficult kick into a swirling wind and it would have been a minor miracle had it gone over.

DK are at home to Longton next Saturday. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 20th October - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 15- Loughborough Students 20

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland, 14 Adam Connif, 13 Carl Robinson, 12 Tom Bissell, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Dave Hadkiss, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Tom McIntosh, 7 James Bullock, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ian Langford, 4 Ben Connett, 3 Ian Coles, 2 Pete Booth, 1 Paul Coles. Reps: 16 Dan Chesham, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Warren Port.

THIS WEEK’S MATCH REPORT COURTESY OF DAVE COYLE (DKRFC HON SEC. RUGBY SECTION)

DK’s Team Manager, Gordon Bannatyne, has been very busy this week. Recuperating from knee surgery, Gordon spent a great deal of time with local rugby clubs in an effort to attract players to help DK through its crippling injury crisis. Fortunately, Gordon’s efforts paid off and a number of players have joined the club on loan. Tom McIntosh, Dave Hadkiss, Carl Robinson all made their debuts and Paul Coles, who played for the club in their National 3 campaign, made a welcome return.

Loughborough Students made their first ever visit to Heathbrook on a crisp autumn afternoon. It was a perfect day for playing rugby, and the Students set their stall out quickly. They took every opportunity to run the ball and looked a very dangerous team. The Students are almost full time rugby players, and they certainly looked the part. The Students were offered National 2 status, but preferred to make their way through the regional leagues. They make no secret of their ambitions and their desire to play at the highest level

The Students were well drilled and their back line looked very sharp. The initial game plan was to pressurise the DK defence and pounce on any errors. This paid off in the 10th minutes when a pacey break and crisp handling lead to centre Jake Guastella scoring an unconverted try.The home side then set up a number of forward drives. Paul Coles drove into the heart of the Students defence, forcing a penalty which Tom Bissell duly converted. DK then showed that their own backs had ambition, and the crowd was treated to some sparkling three quarter play.

In the 17th minute, the Students kicked for the corner following a penalty. They won the lineout and set up a ruck in mid field. Precise passing at pace put winger Simon Lilley into space and he scored in the corner. Fly Half Steve Collins added the conversion.  At this stage DK played with more confidence than they have all season but went further behind on 30 minutes, when a superbly executed miss move lead to a try for Grant Pointer

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3 LOUGHBOROUGH STUDENTS 17

Whilst trailing at half time, DK never looked out of this game. As the game progressed DK did not look like a team that had endured the worst possible start to a season. The majority of the second half was played out in the Students half. DK battered the Students line but to be fair to the men from East Midlands, their defence held firm.

The defences was eventually breached in the 45th minute. Following a series of pick and drives, Allan Mitchell stepped through the defence and scored under the posts. Dave Hadkiss added the conversion.  The game heated up at this point as both sides neither asked for nor gave any quarter. Both sides played with controlled aggression, but within the spirit of the game. Referee, Steve Lee, did have to reach for his cards on one occasion when he had to give Students flanker, Ross Morshead, a ten minute break for killing the ball.

DK really cranked up the pressure, forcing the Students ever backwards. The defence was again breached in the 70th minute, when Carl Robinson was on the end of a crisp passing move, and out paced the defence to score in the corner. The try was not converted Nearly all of the play was now in the Students half. DK, sensing a valuable victory, pounded the Students defence, but just couldn’t break through.

In a rare sortie to the DK half of the field; the Students won a penalty in the 76th minute, which Steve Collins duly converted. Still DK did not give in. In the last play of the game, a late break by Liam Reynolds almost paid off, but he was brought down just short of the line.  Another loss for DK, but a very encouraging performance for Coach Mark Wilson to build on. The DK supporters saw the best team performance for some time. Sadly the second half come back wasn’t quite enough.

DK are away at South Leicester next week. KO 3pm.

Saturday 13th October - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 5 - Luctonians 23

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland, 14 Warren Port, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Tom Bissell, 11 Adam Connif, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 James Bullock, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Andy Ford, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Ian Coles, 2 Pete Booth, 1 Dan Chesham. Reps: 16 Jeff Large, 17 Ollie Shakespeare, 18 Liam Reynolds.

Though DK lost this replayed game to league leaders Luctonians, this was a far more encouraging performance from their backs. Having lost the first game a fortnight ago 7-34, the scoreline this time flattered Lucs’ who only added their final seven points in stoppage time. After conceding two early tries DK, who were heavily outgunned up front, fought tooth and nail for the rest of the game. A superb try from skipper Ian Gowland midway through the second half raised DK hopes but the home side’s makeshift and lightweight front row, though tenacious in the loose, were no match in the set pieces for their bigger Luctonians counterparts.

There seems to be no end to DK’s injury jinx, tight head prop Dan Shakespeare was a late cry off with back spasms and had to be replaced by Ian Coles which meant that Dan Chesham had to switch to tight head whilst Pete Booth, a flanker, was hooking! Not surprising then that the front row came under increasing pressure during the game. Andy Ford came into the second row and James Bullock returned to the openside flank. In the backs there was a welcome return from injury for skipper Ian Gowland who was the DK Coaches Man of the Match, he instilled a lot more confidence into the back line, was always a threat with the ball in hand and scored a splendid second half try. Young fly half Gareth Bown also had a fine game, hardly putting a foot wrong all afternoon. He is a precocious talent. Tom Bissell too looked very comfortable at inside centre. It was just unfortunate that the pack, on this occasion were unable to give their backs the ball on the front foot.

DK made the early running but after missing an early penalty chance they fell behind to a well worked Luctonians try after 7 minutes. Breaking swiftly from defence, good inter-passing between both forwards and backs for 50m up field culminated in hooker Nick Byron scoring an excellent try for the visitors to lead 0-5. DK then lost centre Tom Weaver to injury, Warren Port moved into the centre with Liam Reynolds on the right wing. Another 70m sweeping Luc’s move after 17 minutes led indirectly to their next score. They knocked on near the DK line but shoved the home side off their heel for hooker Nick Byron to drive over for his second try and a 0-10 lead for Lucs.

At this stage things were looking bleak for the home side, they were being shunted backwards in the scrums and were unable to secure very little decent ball. However it was good to see a little life left in the “DK Dog”, as to a man, they took the game to the visitors, trying to move the ball at every opportunity. They harried the bigger Luc’s pack into errors and they were never quite able to regain their earlier total dominance. Unfortunately DK’s lack of presence up front meant they were unable to turn their hard earned possession into points.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0 LUCTONIANS 10

Though missing an early penalty chance DK were still causing the visitors problems and a sublime piece of play from fly half Gareth Bown saw him sidestep two Luc’s attackers inside the DK 22 and put winger Liam Reynolds away and in the clear to make a searing 70m break before being hauled down agonisingly short of the line. Fly half Brett Prior increased Luc’s lead to 0-13 with a 53rd minute penalty but DK hit back with a spectacular try on 58 minutes. DK had actually lost the ball in midfield but a poor Luc’s pass saw the ball run loose between the home 22 and 10m line for DK to snap it up and sweep it quickly out to Ian Gowland who sprinted 60m past at least four would be tacklers to score an unconverted try in the corner to make it 5-13 and all to play for.

Apart from the first quarter of the game this had been a gritty, brave performance from the depleted DK side but they were undone when a speculative drop kick from Brett Prior after 77 minutes barely crept over for Luc’s to increase their lead to 5-16. DK continued to battle but conceded a late try deep into stoppage time. Winger Liam Reynolds marginally late tackle saw Lucs opt for a 5m scrum from the penalty and though they were unable to move the DK pack on this occasion, a short pass to Brett Prior saw the stand off score near the posts and then convert the score to make it 5-23.

DK are at home to Loughborough Students next week. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 6th October -Midlands 1

Peterborough 48 - Dudley Kingswinford 9

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Warren Port, 14 Adam Connif, 13 Tom Weaver, 12 Tom Bissell, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Gareth Bown, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 Pete Booth, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Jeff Large, 1 Dan Chesham. Reps: 16 Ian Coles, 17 Andy Ford, 18 Ryan Wicketts.

DK‘s worrying decline continued at Peterborough where they were beaten by seven tries to nil, five of them coming in the second half as their injury ravaged side capitulated in the face of the increasing pressure and confidence from the home pack.

The DK First XV’s chronic lack of strength in depth is beginning to haunt them, already shorn of several first team players through injury; DK had lost another five before this game! Key back row players Ian Langford and James Bullock were injured against Luctonians last week as were front rowers Adam Blackford and Al Francis whilst centre Simon Fletcher is trying his hand at flanker in the 2nd XV!

DK have been ordered to replay their home league game against Luctonians next week. Apparently a ruling from the RFU dictates that the loss of two DK front row players to injury with under an hour played deems the match to be abandoned. Whilst it’s always good to see Tommo, Burkie and co. again, Luc’s certainly won’t be so happy with this unnecessary expense.

Match Report courtesy of Phil Elmer, Peterborough RFC)

Peterborough put their Midlands Division One league campaign back on track with a comprehensive 48-9 victory over Dudley Kingswinford at Fortress Fengate last Saturday afternoon, writes Phil Elmer. And it was Borough’s try-scoring machine Pete Brudnell who, once again, led from the front running in three tries.

For the first quarter of this fixture the play was even with both sides having chances to score but it was the visitors who led 6-0 with two penalties from the boot of Tom Bissell (2) before that man Brudnell struck.

His first touchdown came on 22 minutes with a 20 yards dash down the left wing and 15 minutes later he crossed over under the posts following excellent work from the Borough back division with winger Chris Kells putting Brudnell away. Ben Chan landed one conversion and with the visitors managing a third penalty kick from Tom Bissell, Borough had a narrow 12-9 lead approaching the halfway point.

With just one minute of the first half remaining the city side moved further ahead as Lithuanian centre Aleksandras Ciuchlejus punched a hole through the Dudley defence before handing to fellow centre Tim Hullock to run in from 25 yards under the posts. With Chan adding the conversion points Borough reached the turnaround with a comfortable19-9 advantage.

Half Time: PETERBOROUGH 19 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 9

The second period proved to be mostly one way traffic as Borough grew in confidence and tries came thick and fast at regular intervals. On 46 minutes second row Phil Danes crossed under the posts and Hullock claimed his second just 5 minutes later. On 59 minutes South African prop Nico Steemkamp romped in from 15 yards and Brudnell completed his hat-trick on 64 minutes.

East Midlands winger Kells, who had great afternoon on the wing, added Borough’s last on 74 minutes and with Chan managing two further conversions Borough completed the rout at 48-9. Brudnell has touched down an incredible eight times from just three appearances this season and was justifiably named as the Insurewise player-of-the-month.

DK are at home to Luctonians next Saturday for their re-arranged league game (see above). KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 29th September - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 7 - Luctonians 34

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Warren Port, 14 Adam Connif, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Liam Reynolds, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 Dan Chesham, 17 Andy Ford, 18 Layton Wilkinson.

DK suffered their fourth consecutive defeat at the hands of league leaders Luctonians who won comfortably by five tries to one without ever extending themselves unduly. Three of their scores were as a direct result of DK unforced errors. The home pack again stood up very well despite losing prop Al Francis and hooker Adam Blackford to rib injuries and having to make do with uncontested scrums. They were always the equal of the visitors eight, providing their backs with decent enough ball throughout. The problems were again the usage of that ball in the back division where injuries to six potential 1st XV backs have left the squad somewhat threadbare in this area. The situation being so critical, they could not even supply a back for the bench! There was certainly no lack of effort from the lads that played but Luc’s had the luxury of a little more quality behind their scrum.

Gareth Davies DK’s main playmaker in the backs division was injured at the end of the game at Broadstreet last week and was replaced by Tom Weaver. Liam Reynolds replaced the injured Mike Jones on the left wing and Ollie Shakespeare returned to the second row. The DK pack never dropped their heads and all, including replacements, played well. Andy McEwen was named DK Coaches Man of the Match for his extremely high work rate and quality play throughout the game. Shaun Griffiths and Ollie Shakespeare shaded the lineouts, even managing to pinch a couple of Luc’s throws. To say it was not a good day for the back division would be an understatement, but young Liam Reynolds on the left wing at least gave the DK faithful something to cheer, chasing down and tackling on two or was it three occasions, Lucs attackers in full flight and seemingly certain to score. With a fully functioning back division he could be a real handful in attack too.

After only 6 minutes DK lost loose head prop Al Francis to a rib injury to be replaced by Dan Chesham. On 10 minutes a DK knock on in open play near the home 10m line was snapped up by Luc’s fly half Brett Prior who was stopped just short of the line but No 8 Paul Hulland drove over from the ruck. Prior converted for Luc’s to lead 0-7. The home pack warmed to the task and drove the visitors back, they conceded a penalty after 17 minutes but Tom Bissell was just wide with the kick. Luc’s scored their second try after 23 minutes when a DK clearance failed to make touch, Pete Smith the visitor’s right wing ran it back and with the DK cover in disarray his pass to Luc’s skipper Richie Henwood saw the centre stroll in for the try. Brett Prior added the conversion for 0-14.

DK then lost hooker Adam Blackford to a rib injury and with two front rowers out in the first half hour there was no option but uncontested scrums for the rest of the game. Luc’s (30) and DK (35) missed kicks at goal and then, in stoppage time, a magnificent tackle from Liam Reynolds prevented Luc’s adding to their score as he caught and brought down the visitors left winger Pat Garrod in full flight only a couple of metres from the DK line.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0 LUCTONIANS 14

Luctonians scored the best try of the game after 45 minutes. Snuffing out a DK threat in their own 22 the ball was moved at pace through several pairs of hands the length of the pitch with full back Charlie Meredith taking the scoring pass for an unconverted try to increase Luc’s lead to 0-19. Luc’s No 8 Paul Hulland got a yellow card on 48 minutes for attempting to kill the ball and then on 49 minutes the DK forwards who had striven manfully, got a little reward when Ian Langford broke into the Luc’s 22, he was hauled down but Layton Wilkinson picked up from the ruck to power over from 10m out. Tom Bissell converted for 7-19. Their respite was short as they gifted Luc’s another try on 52 minutes. DK had won a ball in their 22 but instead of clearing their lines first time, an attempted pass gave Simon Fletcher man and ball and the centre’s belated attempt to clear was charged down for Luc’s centre Cameron Hewitt to touch down the loose ball in goal. Brett Prior converted and Luc’s were out of sight at 7 -26 up.

At this stage DK were still getting good quality possession from their pack but once secured their passing and general execution of the basics was poor allowing Lucs to disrupt the home attacks relatively easily whilst playing well within themselves. DK wing Liam Reynolds made another spectacular tackle after 63 minutes to deny the visitors a fifth try but it was only a matter of time and on 66 minutes Luc’s prop Tony Marfell was driven over from a lineout catch and drive for an unconverted try making the score 7-31. DK did not concede another try before the end but Brett Prior kicked another penalty in stoppage time for a final score of 7-34.

DK visit Peterborough (league) next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 22nd September - Midlands 1

Broadstreet 26 - Dudley Kingswinford 12

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Warren Port, 14 Adam Connif, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Mike Jones, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Allan Mitchell, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Andy Ford, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Al Francis. Reps: 16 John Fallon, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Nigel francis

DK slumped to their third consecutive defeat of the new season in a dreary, dull game at Broadstreet. They had held their own and looked marginally the better side when leading 6-9 after a pretty dismal first half before their hosts managed to shake themselves out of the general torpor affecting the game and assert a decisive degree of control up front. Once they had scored the first try of the game from a rolling maul, DK’s already brittle confidence evaporated and Broadstreet coasted to their third win from three games to consolidate their second place in the league table.

Often, slow ball from the base meant that DK were a little too predictable to pose much of a threat in attack and they never really came close to scoring a try. Thus it was utterly predictable that when Broadstreet did take the lead in the second half, they would go on to win the game. Just as they did last week at Bedford Ath, DK had fallen away badly in defence after competing well and on even terms during in the first period. As the side is currently struggling to attack effectively, it is crucially important that these confidence-sapping defensive lapses are minimised, as well as trying to inject some pace or at least some speed of thought into the back line.

Injuries and non availability have not helped DK’s cause. Skipper Ian Gowland their best strike runner is out for at least a month with a broken hand; Ben Coles and Ben Connett are still injured whilst Ollie Shakespeare and Dan Chesham were unavailable. Mike Jones replaced Gowland, Simon Fletcher came into the centre for Ben Coles whilst Al Francis and Andy Ford replaced Dan Chesham and Ollie Shakespeare respectively. Positional changes saw Allan Mitchell restored to the scrum half berth and Gareth Davies to inside centre. Warren Port was at full back. Gareth Davies was named the DK Coaches Man of the Match for a typically committed performance whilst Andy McEwen and James Bullock grafted tirelessly in the pack.

After a promising opening 5 minutes fly half Tom Bissell put DK 0-3 up with a penalty but Broadstreet fly half Dan Richards levelled the scores at 3-3 on 10 minutes. Neither side were able to dominate but DK held a slight edge in territory and possession and Tom Bissell restored their lead with a 26th minute penalty making it 3-6. Defences were on top but another fine Tom Bissell penalty kick after 33 minutes increased DK’s lead to 3-9.

The home side strove hard to cut the deficit and a fine break from centre James Hamm saw him held up on the DK line. Desperate defence cost DK a penalty in front of their posts which was duly converted by Dan Richards in stoppage time leaving a 6-9 half time score line.

Half Time: BROADSTREET 6 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 9

Broadstreet looked a different side after the break and put DK under increasing pressure. They wheeled a DK heel 5m out and from the re-set scrum set up a rolling maul from which Broadstreet lock and captain Eddie Simkiss was driven over for an unconverted try giving the home side the lead for the first time in the game at 11-9 after 51 minutes. DK lost their shape and on 57 minutes the home side scored again. Driving deep inside the DK half down the left touchline, they moved the ball quickly right to the other wing where full back Wayne Lester took an inside pass to storm over the line for a second unconverted try to make it 16-9. A Dan Richards penalty after 62 minutes stretched the home lead to 10 points at 19-9.

To their credit, DK strove hard to get back into the game with a flurry of attacks and Tom Bissell reduced the arrears to 19-12 with a 64th minute penalty. Broadstreet however were not about to let this one slip and when John Fallon was yellow carded shortly afterwards for a little skulduggery, they attacked again setting up an unstoppable rolling maul for scrum half Luke Talbot to be driven over on 75 minutes. Dan Richards added the conversion making the final score 26-12.

Another unhappy afternoon for the DK faithful was complete when wing Mike Jones was helped off with an ankle injury followed by a yellow card for Andy Ford for preventing the release of the ball.

DK are at home to league leaders Luctonians next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 15th September - Midlands 1

Bedford Athletic 29 Dudley Kingswinford 11

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland (Capt), 14 Adam Connif, 13 Ben Coles, 12 Allan Mitchell, 11 Nigel Francis, 9 Gareth Davies, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, Ian Langford, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare Reps: 16 Al Francis, 17 Andy Ford, 18 Mike Jones.

After two consecutive defeats DK lie second from bottom of Midlands 1, their lowest league placing for many years and the next two weeks see them face second placed Broadstreet (a) and then league leaders Luctonians (h) both having won their opening two fixtures in style. No pressure then! Yesterday the pack played pretty well, giving the home forwards a torrid afternoon at times in the set scrums and they were superior in the lineouts which were a great improvement from the previous week. But DK again struggled to deliver any real impetus and penetration through their back line, whereas Ath though under severe forward pressure at times were far superior in their link and support play throughout

Though again being comprehensively beaten DK were very much in with a chance of saving this game up until Shaun Griffiths was yellow carded on 52 minutes, a couple of minutes after a perfectly good try from the same player was disallowed. The referee Mr Fisher adjudged it “held up” but was perhaps not really in the ideal position to see. This was the turning point in the game, for all their early second half pressure DK had come away pointless and the talented Ath backs then showed them the way with three second half tries. Skipper Ian Gowland scored a spectacular 80m individual try in stoppage time but he was often DK’s sole threat in another disappointing afternoon for the backs.

Ian Langford retuned to DK’s back row with Dan Shakespeare and Adam Blackford starting in the front row. Ben Coles replaced Simon Fletcher in the centre and Al Francis, Andy Ford and Micheal Jones made up the bench. A tremendous performance from Ian Langford – he was at the heart of most of DK’s play in both attack and defence – saw him deservedly awarded DK Coaches Man of the Match for his Trojan efforts. The pack as a whole had the edge over Ath in the tight with the front row of Dan Chesham, Adam Blackford and Dan Shakespeare taking a ball against the head and generally comprehensively out-scrummaging their hosts. Andy McEwen had another fine game in the back row. Gareth Davies tried hard to get his backs moving but with the exception of DK skipper Ian Gowland, they were overshadowed on the day by the raw pace in the Ath back line. Ben Coles made his league debut at outside centre and did well with very limited opportunities until being injured and replaced by Mike Jones returning to the club from University. Back row Andy Ford, a signing from Camp Hill also debuted from the bench late on in the second half.

DK started brightly but gave a soft try away after 10 minutes when a glaring missed tackle let in Ath right wing Joe Hunt for an unconverted try and a 5-0 lead when no danger had threatened. The DK pack was beginning to make inroads and after a steal against the head on 25 minutes Ath’s scrum half was penalised for offside and Tom Bissell kicked the penalty for 5-3. Ath hit back immediately when once again poor tackling resulted in a flowing move through several hands for full back Paul Ryder to sweep in under the posts for a try converted by fly half Clinton Prinsloo for 12-3.

Defensive errors had cost DK dear but their sterling forward effort and concerted pressure again saw Ath infringe and Tom Bissell kicked a 33rd minute penalty for 12-6. Shoddy tackling had handed Ath a two try lead but there was some optimism that this might be clawed back if the DK forward momentum could be maintained.

Half Time: BEDFORD ATHLETIC 12 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 6

DK began the second half with several promising attacks but the quality of their passing and their link play left a lot to be desired. Nevertheless the heavy pressure continued and after 48 minutes Shaun Griffiths was driven over for what looked like a perfectly good try to those close by, but the referee, possibly unsighted, adjudged it “held up.” On 52 minutes Ath hooker Ian Gilmore and DK second row Shaun Griffiths were yellow carded for fighting and this seemed to affect DK more than their hosts and against the run of play Ath scored a third try after 61 minutes when good handling and support play following a ruck on the DK 22 saw fly half Clinton Prinsloo in under the posts for the try, he then added the conversion for 19-6.

This was a massive blow for DK who had made nearly all of the second half running without scoring a point, but just reward for some clinical finishing from the Ath. Worse was to follow on 70 minutes when another flowing Ath move resulted in flanker Ben Beagent touching down to make it 24-6, though this was a poor decision from Mr Fisher the referee, as the pass to Beagent was quite patently forward. With injuries taking their toll, DK were in some disarray now and Ath left winger Joe Hunt sprinted 40m through a demoralised DK rearguard for another unconverted try to make it 29-6.

DK though had the last word with a simply breathtaking 85m individual try from their skipper and full back Ian Gowland who receiving the ball well inside his 22 set off on a mesmerising run, cutting right through the previously rock solid Ath defences. Feinting, weaving and sidestepping past man after man up past halfway to just short of the Ath 22, he chipped ahead of the converging Ath cover to outstrip it and touch down for a stunning try. Shame we can’t give him more opportunities.

DK are away at Broadstreet next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 8th September - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford 13 - Dunstablians 15

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ian Gowland (Capt), 14 Adam Connif, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Allan Mitchell, 11 Jon Shankland, 9 Gareth Davies, 8 Andy McEwen, 7 James Bullock, 6 Rob Chivers, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Chesham, 2 Jeff Large, 3 Wayne Millard Reps: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Warren Port.

This was an inauspicious start to DK’s season but they could have few complaints as Dee’s were the better side overall, making far fewer mistakes and generally retaining the ball in contact well, whereas DK were turned over on countless occasions during the game. They also lost 50% of their lineout ball, only Shaun Griffiths managing to secure the ball regularly.

Though deservedly beaten, the home side were not helped by three confidence draining first half yellow cards from referee Marcos Caton, all of them were very questionable decisions. The first was when left wing Jon Shankland was adjudged to have dived into the Dee’s side of the ruck when the visitors were attacking 5m from the DK line. In fact Jon was dragged from onside into the ruck by a Dee’s forward! It proved to be a 7 pointer as Dee’s scored a converted try from the resultant penalty catch and drive. The other two yellow cards were given to Layton Wilkinson and Ollie Shakespeare for rucking!*?! Innocuous rucking at that, both “incidents” would have gone unnoticed in a ladies match. Perhaps Mr Caton might consider this less boisterous version of the game? The Dee’s touch judge summed the hapless ref up perfectly when he turned; grinning towards the stand after Mr Caton had issued the third YC and commented “Wish we could have him every week!” DK never really recovered from these patently unfair disruptions despite the lion’s share of second half territory and possession.

DK are still without Ben Connett and Gareth Bown (injury) whilst Ian Langford was at a wedding. The pack worked hard and had the edge in the set scrums but their lineout and ball retention need a lot of work. No 8 Andy McEwen had a great game throughout, his high intensity work rate and tackling, Layton Wilkinson James Bullock and Shaun Griffiths also grafted hard. The new look back line lacked penetration and was caught napping in defence on a couple of occasions. It didn’t really function well as a unit despite the heroic efforts of scrum half Gareth Davies. The Dee’s backs dealt with DK’s laboured attacks comfortably and the home side rarely threatened the visitor’s line.

Problems arrived early for DK as flanker Rob Chivers (shoulder) was helped off only 6 minutes into his league debut. Then Jon Shankland was yellow carded in the farcical incident described above. Dee’s hooker Ben Murphy was driven over for the score from a penalty catch and drive with fly half Jamie Whelan converting for 0-7 after 8 minutes. Layton Wilkinson was then yellow carded for simply rucking after 11 minutes and DK were up against it. Dee’s however were unable to profit whilst DK were down to 13 though the visitor’s centre Richard Butler really should have scored after 18 minutes after breaking through DK’s depleted rearguard only to be hauled down on the line by Adam Connif. Dee’s did increase their lead to 0-10 on the half hour when Jamie Whelan kicked a penalty. DK back to 15 men were improving and good pressure resulted in Dee’s being forced to concede a penalty which Tom Bissell converted with a fine kick from the 10m line to make it 3-10.

Then, just as DK were beginning to mount some serious pressure Mr Caton struck again with Ollie Shakespeare this time his yellow card victim after 38 mins, again for extremely gentle rucking!!! The home side did however manage to hang on until the break without shipping any further points.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3 DUNSTABLIANS 10

DK had probably their best spell of the game after half time and came close on three occasions but Dee’s defended well and turned them over twice in good positions, they then lost a crucial penalty lineout 5m from the visitor’s line. They managed to maintain the pressure and Tom Bissell brought them 3 points closer at 6-10 with a 69th minute penalty.

Dee’s quickly cancelled this out with a try on 71 minutes in their first foray of the half into the DK 22! Dee’s fly half Jamie Whelan broke the DK line unchallenged and the ball was quickly moved left for winger Duncan Holmes to touch down for an unconverted try and a winning 6-15 lead.

Shortly after DK’s afternoon of woe was compounded when left wing Jon Shankland was carried off with an ankle injury. DK began throwing the ball about in a desperate attempt to take something from the game but these attacks were high risk and imprecise, they were fortunate that Dee’s seemed content to sit on their lead or they could easily have conceded more points. With the game lost DK did manage a last gasp try when Dee’s were penalised on their 22m line. Ian Gowland took the quick tap penalty and in typical fashion Gareth Davies – DK’s best back – ran hard for the line slipping the ball to Adam Connif who then sent in Tom Bissell under the posts for a consolation try in stoppage time. Tom Bissell added the conversion to make it 13-15, a fair reflection of the game.

DK are away at Bedford Athletic next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Weston Super Mare 24 - Dudley Kingswinford 7

For their first pre-season game, DK took a young and relatively inexperienced back line to Weston due to holidays, injuries and unavailability. The home side had had the advantage of a win the week before and fielded a strong squad who proved a little too strong for the DK youngsters.

A tortuous four hour coach journey was not ideal preparation but despite this DK took a 10th minute 0-7 lead with a smart try from scrum half Gareth Davies converted by Tom Bissell who had an impressive game at fly half as did young Carl Lockley in the centre.

Despite a strong performance from the DK pack, Weston hit back with tries from both wingers, their right wing touching down after 18 minutes and the left winger after 25 minutes, both tries were converted by the Weston fly half who also added a 35th minute penalty for the hosts to run out 24-7 winners.

Saturday 25th - August Red Rock Rugby Festival

West Park St Helens 7 - Dudley Kingswinford 10

In the first match of a 3 cornered tournament DK produced a gritty performance to topple their National League 3 North hosts. Despite going 7-0 behind after 15 minutes to a converted try from the West Park scrum half DK piled on the pressure to be rewarded with a fine equalising try after 24 minutes from new skipper and left wing Ian Gowland. Fly half Tom Bissell converted for 7-7. With both sides searching for a winning score, the trusty boot Tom Bissell settled the game with a well struck penalty on 34 minutes.

Llangefni 14 - Dudley Kingswinford 21

DK played several youngsters in their second game against Llangefni from Anglesey and came out on top by 3 tries to 2 in an entertaining contest. DK opened the scoring with a sensational try from young Colt centre Stefan Shillingford, carving at pace through the cover from inside his own half after 10 minutes. Where did he get that sort of pace? Not from the old warhorse Shilly Senior, that’s for sure! (Perhaps mum Teresa was a sprinter in her youth). Fly half Tom Bissell converted for 0-7.

After 14 minutes and good DK forward pressure Layton Wilkinson crashed over for DK’s second try gain converted by the reliable boot of Tom Bissell to make it 0-14. After some sloppy play in their own 22, Llangefni reduced the arrears with a converted try from their blindside flanker after 20 minutes making it 7-14.

After half time DK restored their 14 point cushion at 7-21 with a well worked try from right wing Nigel Francis again converted by Tom Bissell.

DK rang the changes and Llangefni managed a late try converted by their fullback to make the final score 14-21 in DK’s favour. All in all this was a very satisfactory afternoon for DK, with several of their promising youngsters, notably Stefan Shillingford, Carl Lockley and Michael Griffiths adapting well to the senior side.

Saturday 1st September

Dudley Kingswinford 32 - Lichfield 20

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Adam Connif, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Warren Port, 11 Ian Gowland (Capt), 9 Gareth Davies, 8 Layton Wilkinson, 7 Ian Langford, 6 Andy McEwen, 5 James Harding, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 3 Dan Chesham, 2 Geoff Large, 3 Wayne Millard Reps: Dan Shakespeare, Carl Lockley, Adam Blackford, Rob Chivers, Jon Shankland.

DK’s final pre-season game proved to be an excellent workout for both teams. There was very little to choose between the sides on the day, the clinical finishing of DK’s new skipper Ian Gowland with two superb tries being decisive as the home side finally prevailed by five tries to three in an absorbing, if not particularly fluent contest in front of a surprisingly large Heathbrook crowd.

Several DK 1st team squad members were still unavailable through holidays etc., including, Ian Coles, Andy Ford, James Bullock and Ollie Shakespeare with Ben Connett (ligaments) and Gareth Bown (hamstring) out through injury. Despite this the effort was very encouraging against a very committed and impressive Lichfield side. Neither pack was able to dominate and much of the game was played in the middle of the field. DK fielded two of their new signings, Adam Connif (full back) from Walsall and Geoff Large (hooker), both slotted in well.

There were numerous errors throughout from both sides, understandable in an early season game, but the tempo never dropped throughout the 80 minutes. DK’s star was undoubtedly skipper Ian Gowland with his two tremendous tries. Gareth Davies had a sound game at scrum half considering he had to deal with a lot of slow ball, his half back partner Tom Bissell generally distributed the ball well and kicked superbly out of hand. New boy Adam Connif showed some good pace and flair at full back. It was a hard slog for the pack but the back row of Ian Langford, Andy McEwen and Layton Wilkinson worked very hard. Shaun Griffiths also caught the eye in the second row.

DK attacked from the off and took the lead after 4 minutes with a fine try. Adam Connif ran the ball out of defence, warren Port drew the cover before releasing skipper Ian Gowland who pinned back his ears to leave the Lich cover for dead in a 45m sprint to the posts. Simon Fletcher converted for 7-0. A great start but Lichfield were undaunted and took the game to their hosts, after 10 minutes or so of heavy pressure near the DK line the ball was spread swiftly left. A huge miss move pass saw the visitor’s left wing cross with ease. The fly half added the extras and it was all square at 7-7 after 16 minutes.

At this stage Lichfield were controlling the game and keeping DK penned inside their half. It was no surprise then that they went 7-10 in front after 27 minutes with a penalty. Stung into action DK laid siege to the visitor’s line but over eagerness saw them ignore two clear overlaps. The did manage a score though after 32 minutes when quick thinking from scrum half Gareth Davies saw him tap a penalty 5m out and dash over the line before the Lich cover could react, Simon Fletcher added the extras for DK to regain the lead 14-10. DK maintained their offensive and deep into stoppage time after a couple of strong drives up to the Lichfield goal line, centre Simon Fletcher was driven over for a try to make it 19-10, though he failed with his conversion attempt. So DK finished the half with a comfortable lead though the Lichfield must have been a little disappointed after having marginally more of the play.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19 LICHFIELD 10

DK again began strongly and soon increased their lead when No 8 Layton Wilkinson broke free in midfield to set up a flowing attack through several pairs of hands culminating in Ian Langford touching down for an unconverted try on 45 minutes. Tails up DK poured forward but it was Lichfield who scored next on 52 minutes. The visitor’s scrum half attempted to drill the ball forward near the DK 22 it rebounded to a second row forward who was well offside and the DK cover was guilty of waiting for a whistle that never came as the Lichfield No 5 ploughed over virtually unopposed to reduce the arrears to 24-15.

For the remainder of the game both sides strived to dominate and it provided some of the best passages of play in the match. Lichfield broke the deadlock after 75 minutes with a neat try when DK failed to protect the front of the lineout and a Lichfield prop scored an unconverted try in the corner for 24-20, game on!

The visitors however were unable to come close again and DK sealed the match with a Tom Bissell penalty on 80 minutes followed by another superb try from Ian Gowland in stoppage time when after a flowing DK three-quarter move the winger managed to rescue and take a poor attempted pass at pace, to again outstrip the Lich cover for a marvellous unconverted try in the corner to make the final score 32-20.

DK begin their 2007-8 league campaign at home to Dunstablians next week. KO 3pm.

 

2006 - 2007

Click on team below to go to match report:

Pre Season Friendlies Dunstablians (a) Bedford Athletic (h) Broad Street (a)  Luctonians (a) Peterborough (h)  Market Bosworth (a) South Leicester (h) Rugby Lions (a) EDF Cup Longton (a) Luton (h) Walsall (a) Scunthorpe (h) Newport (h) North Mids Cup Luton (a) Longton (h) South Leicester (a) Whitchurch (a) North Mids Cup Market Bosworth (h) Peterborough (a) Luctonians (h) Broad Street (h) Bedford Athletic (a) Dunstablians (h) Scunthorpe (a) Walsall (h) Lichfield (a) Beverley (a) play off

Saturday 28th April - North/Midlands Play Off

BEVERLEY 7 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Alex Francis, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ben Connett, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bullock, 8 Pete Knight (Capt). Replacements: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 John Fallon, 18 Andy McEwen, 19 Gareth Bown.

DK’s return to the national league must be put on hold for another year as they were narrowly beaten by their hosts who managed to cling on for victory despite being under heavy pressure for two thirds of the game. Coach Mark Wilson and DK lads were sorely disappointed at the manner of the defeat as Beverley, aside from their somewhat controversial early try, exerted less pressure on them during the game than virtually any other side they have played against this season.

The DK pack dominated the lineout, took two balls against the head and they were by far the better drilled eight in the loose, yet Beverley deserved their win for their extraordinary defensive effort. Though having most of the possession and a huge territorial advantage for most of the game, DK were simply unable to breach the home line despite camping on it for long periods. The visitor’s distribution in the backs was nowhere near sharp enough and their wingers saw little of the ball. They missed two simple kicks at goal from in front of the posts which by themselves would have been enough to win the game and they were also guilty of naivety. After the game the excellent referee Michael Tutty expressed some surprise that DK had opted to kick at goal after he had given a last warning to Beverley that their next offence would incur a penalty try for persistent offending (this whilst under heavy pressure on their own goal line early in the second half). The official was presumably intimating that with Beverley walking on eggshells, DK should have turned the screw with either a catch and drive or an attacking scrum from the penalty.

DK were at full strength with Nigel Francis returning to the right wing and Ben Connett to the second row. The pack played superbly as a unit, Adam Blackford took two balls against the head as DK turned up the heat in the second half, Ben Connett and Shaun Griffiths were superb in the lineout and around the park whilst the back row kept the home side under pressure by regularly turning over the ball in the loose. The DK Coaches Man of the Match was scrum half Alan Mitchell who was a constant threat and kept the home defences busy throughout.

The early exchanges were pretty even with DK showing few signs of nerves and looking confident on the ball. Beverley skipper and scrum half Ian Archibald was wide with a 5th minute penalty then after 13 minutes DK fly half Eddie Smith had to leave the field after being concussed in a heavy tackle. He was replaced by young colt Gareth Bown. Beverley opened the scoring with a try after 15 minutes. A professional foul from a Beverley prop on DK skipper Pete Knight who was blocked illegally when attempting to tackle Beverley No 8 James McKay created a momentary lapse in the DK cover and McKay was allowed to break deep into the DK 22 before sending in Beverley’s impressive open side flanker David Worral for a try converted by Ian Archibald. No real complaints from DK, most sides do it these days and even the best refs and TJ’s find it almost impossible to pick up after the ball has gone.

DK were beginning to impose themselves in the loose and the home side were frequently penalised for some desperate defence, their No 8 James McKay was yellow carded on 24 minutes for persistent offending. Towards the end of the half it was all DK but sterling defence from Beverley just managed to keep them at bay. Andy McLellan missed a straightforward penalty in front of the posts in stoppage time, possibly put off by the shameful antics of a few drunken louts on the club balcony behind the goal. To be fair the Beverley club officials were extremely embarrassed by this and offered their profuse apologies after the game.

Half Time: BEVERLEY 7 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

The Beverley goal line was again under siege for much of the second period and Andy McLellan succeeded with a 47th minute penalty to make it 7-3. DK intensified their attacks and the home goal line led a charmed life as the visitors pounded it incessantly. Most sides at this level would have folded under the pressure but a combination of superb defence from Beverley and a few poor options from DK left the home line intact.

Beverley’s David Worrall was yellow carded for foul play on 57 minutes along with DK’s James Bullock for retaliation. Now totally dominating territory and possession, it seemed only a matter of time until DK broke through. Andy McLellan missed another penalty in front of the posts after 66 minutes but DK’s pressure was unrelenting. They came close on several occasions but the heroic Beverley cover was not found wanting. Gareth Bown almost made the line near the end but the ball was dashed from his grasp with the line beckoning. Beverley wound down the clock and must have been mightily relieved to hear the final whistle.

So the game was lost but DK can be proud of a tremendous effort, Coach Mark Wilson has succeeded in producing a very competent forward pack and there is certainly talent in the back line that with a little tweaking could quite easily produce a title winning side next season.

 p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 21st April

LICHFIELD 14 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 22

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Jon Shankland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jon Shankland, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bullock, 8 Pete Andy McEwen. Replacements: 16 Alex Francis, 17 Shaun Griffiths, 18 Russ Gauden, 19 Layton Wilkinson, 20 Liam Reynolds; 21 Gareth Bown

As expected, Lichfield gave DK a thorough and testing workout in their last game prior to the playoff encounter with Beverley in Yorkshire next Saturday. Lichfield RFC who have battled back from a barren period over the past few years, gained promotion last year, finished in fifth place in Midlands West 2 this season and are well on the way to regaining their former status as one of the leading junior clubs in the Midlands region. Today’s game was also Lichfield’s long serving loose head prop Vince Mackin’s last game for the club.

DK had the lion’s share of possession during the game and their back row regularly turned over the home side’s ball, but a combination of excellent defence from Lichfield and some rather slipshod passing cost the visitors dearly. On three occasions in the first half they created clear overlaps only for the final pass to go badly astray. As a result the home side grew in confidence and though their attacking options were somewhat limited, they scored two excellent tries and DK were only able to make the game safe in stoppage time.

DK gave a debut to eighteen year old colt Gareth Bown in the last 20 minutes and his polished, nerveless cameo performance at fly half must have impressed everyone in the ground. He scored a superb try and his handling and passing were simply flawless. There is no doubt that DK have unearthed a future first team number ten. I just hope we can hang on to him for a while!

DK rested skipper Pete Knight, fly half Eddie Smith and wing Nigel Francis but were otherwise at full strength. The back row kept DK on the front foot for most of the game with excellent games from Ian Langford, Layton Wilkinson, James Bullock and Andy McEwen. The half backs played well, Alan Mitchell especially, was buzzing at scrum half and is in a good run of form at present.

With a stiff breeze at their backs DK began strongly and kept Lichfield penned inside their own half but the home side were well up for this game and the visitors were unable to find any gaps during the opening period. The game was played between the Lichfield 22 and halfway for the most part, but the pressure came to nothing as DK gave away too many penalties when in possession. Towards the end of the half DK created several clear cut chances to score but schoolboy passing errors let them down badly with the cover well beaten

DK finally got points on the board in time added on at the end of the half when Ollie Shakespeare was driven over for an unconverted try after their umpteenth rolling maul.

Half Time: LICHFIELD 0 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 5

Though they were now against the breeze, DK continued to dominate possession and Andy McLellan increased their lead to 0-8 after 57 minutes. This seemed to galvanise the home side, for the first time in the game they managed to apply sustained pressure and after winning quick ball from a ruck near the DK 22, the ball was spread wide for full back Spencer Brown to take it at pace and neatly step inside the DK cover to touch down at the posts for a fine try. Prop Mark Poole added the extras for to bring Lichfield within a point at 7-8 on 62 mins.

DK immediately upped the ante and successive catch and drive penalties took them into the Lichfield 22. Quick ball from the maul saw debutant fly half Gareth Bown ghost through the Lichfield defences for a stunning try after the merest hint of a dummy had totally wrong footed the home cover. Andy McLellan converted for DK to regain their 8 point cushion at 7-15 after 70 minutes.

Lichfield were far from finished and when DK unaccountably lost the ball on their own 22m line, Lichfield second row Roy Menmuir was quickest to respond by picking up and eluding a couple of lunging tackles before plunging over the line close to the posts. Mark Poole converted and the home side were again just a point behind at 14-15 with a couple of minutes left.

It was DK that had the final word though. A good break from James Bullock followed by an astute kick ahead from Andy McLellan saw Lichfield knock on close to their goal line, playing the advantage; Ian Gowland picked up and sent in Ian Langford under the posts for the try. Gareth Bown converted for a final score of 14-22 to DK.

Next week brings DK’s biggest game of the season, the playoff for a place in National 3 North - away against Beverley RFC who were runners-up in North1. The kick off time at Beverley is 3 pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 14th April - Midlands 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 45 - WALSALL 13

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jon Shankland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Alex Francis, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bullock, 8 Pete Knight (Capt). Replacements: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Ian Langford, 18 Tom Bissell.

The last home game of the season is henceforth to be known as the Dave Vaughan Memorial Game and yesterday was the inaugural event. A large crowd of 5/600 turned up to enjoy the sunshine and pay their respects to a great DK clubman as Dave’s wife Jasmine dedicated DK’s re-vamped scoreboard in his honour. David would have been no doubt mortified by all the fuss but it was a fitting tribute to a super guy. He would have also been delighted to see DK win handsomely by seven tries to one against their near neighbours Walsall.

Walsall have been somewhat unfortunate this season with a horrendous injury list leaving them severely under strength for a large part of the season. It has only been in the last few weeks that they have been anywhere near full strength and though relegated they have been one of the form teams of late having won their last three league games before today. Losing local derbies like today’s against Walsall and Bromsgrove before them is, to say the least, disappointing both from both a financial and social aspect, Walsall certainly have better backs than most sides in this division and hopefully they will bounce back next season.

Both sides were lacking key players on the day, in DK’s case Ben Connett and top try scorer Ian Gowland were unavailable and Richard Port who had played so well at Scunthorpe was still injured. DK were well on top in the pack throughout but had some sticky moments in the first half when their normally efficient drift defence, well, just drifted away at times! Certainly the visitorsl were guilty of missing a couple of very clear try scoring opportunities in the first half, but DK tightened up considerably after the break to score four unanswered tries. Though the DK backs are still not at their best, the DK Coaches Man of the Match, Eddie Smith had an inspired game, battered and bruised at the end as usual, he blunted many Walsall forays with typical bravery in the tackle. Scrum half Alan Mitchell had a good game, especially second half as did full back Andy McLellan who kicked beautifully from hand and for goal as well as pulling off a couple of superb, head on, try saving tackles. In the pack Dan Chesham, Andy McEwen and Shaun Griffiths stood out and Ian Langford was in brilliant form after replacing skipper Pete Knight early in the second half.

DK took the lead in the first minute after turning over Walsall possession in midfield and moving it quickly to the left wing where Jon Shankland did extremely well to shrug off a couple of tackles to score an fine unconverted try in the corner for 5-0. Walsall’s excellent fly half Matt Wood put Walsall in front 5-6 with penalties on 10 and 13 minutes as the DK cover desperately infringed to stop the visitor’s impressive back line. Walsall lost flanker Steve Halbert to a yellow card for punching after 17 minutes and DK took full advantage with a couple of converted tries on 20 and 22 mins. They drove Walsall back towards their own line from a penalty then good hands from Gareth Davies and Eddie Smith sent in Nigel Francis under the posts. Two minutes later a break through the middle from big Ollie Shakespeare carried on by Andy McEwen saw him send in Eddie Smith for a fine try. Andy McLellan (2) converted both tries for DK to lead 19-6 after 24 minutes.

Walsall hit back immediately; quick ball and even quicker hands saw centre John Critchley break wide with the DK cover in his wake to send in full back Chris Mould. Matt Wood converted for 19-13. With both sides trying to play fast open rugby in the perfect conditions, Walsall looked the more fluent with the ball in hand but then DK had a lot more of the ball. The visitors in fact missed a couple of glorious opportunities to score but over-complication saw good build ups squandered, a fact that the visitors would rue come the second half.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19 WALSALL 13

A late tackle on DK left wing Jon Shankland led to a penalty catch and drive deep in the Walsall 22 and Shaun Griffiths was driven over easily from a powerful rolling maul, Andy McLellan converted and DK were 26-13 ahead on 42 minutes. Walsall knocked on with the line beckoning after 48 minutes and DK punished them with their fifth try after 57 minutes. Camped on the Walsall line Ian Langford was held up just short but the ball was re-cycled for the impressive Andy McEwen to crash over for an unconverted try to make it 31-13. Walsall lost Steve Halbert to a red card for stamping on 71 minutes whilst DK’s Shaun Griffiths got a yellow for retaliating.

With Walsall over-committing men forward, Gareth Davies broke the line on 74 minutes, Ian Langford was on his shoulder to take the scoring pass, Andy McLellan converted and DK were out of sight at 38-13 up after 74 minutes. Walsall kept plugging away and only a thunderous tackle right on the line from Andy McLellan, saved a certain try after 77 minutes. Deep into stoppage time another blockbusting tackle from Andy McLellan saw DK kick ahead, Walsall fumbled the ball and Nigel Francis was on it like a flash to cruise in for his second try of the afternoon, Andy McLellan again converted for a final score of 45-13 to DK. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

DK have arranged a friendly game at Lichfield next Saturday 21st April prior to their big playoff game at Beverly on Saturday 28th April.

Dave Coyle is running a supporters coach to Beverley. Contact him at dcoyle@junckers.co.uk for further details. Tickets - Adults £10.00, Children £5.00 - on sale at the club on Tuesday 17th & Thursday 19th - 7 till 7.30 pm. PLEASE NOTE REDUCED PRICES

Saturday 31st March - Midlands 1

SCUNTHORPE 20 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Ian Gowland, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Jon Shankland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Alex Francis, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ben Connett, 6 Ian Langford , 7 Richard Port, 8 Pete Knight (Capt). Replacements: 16 Andy McEwen, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Jon Shankland

DK have played tolerably well enough in patches this season to reach the playoffs in what has been a distinctly average Midlands 1 division, with none of the leading clubs likely to make any impression at all in the national league without substantially improving their teams. So it was yesterday at Heslam Park. Though the DK pack were dominant in both loose and scrum for 80% of the game and won enough possession in the first hour to have racked up a large score, their backs just never turned up, they created nothing, missed far too many first up tackles and five out of six kicks at goal to boot. The “Greens” on the other hand were desperately fighting to hold on to their league place and though under the cosh for most of the game they made the best of their limited opportunities and, after realising the DK backs were firing blanks, upped their game to end with a flourish to earn a crucial and hard earned win. The Greens scored three long range tries, all individual efforts and all poorly defended, in left winger Rewiti Viamoso they had the most incisive back on the park, though receiving very little ball in the game, he scored two brilliant individual tries and looked a class above this level.

One note of discord was the boorish behaviour of a couple of inebriated home “soccer style supporters” in the stand who not only abused the excellent referee Steve Johnson throughout but also tried (successfully) to put off DK’s goal kicker by “singing” as the kicks were executed. Scunthorpe RFC are a smashing family club just like DK with mainly home grown players and their committee will I know have been mortified by such childish and moronic behaviour. A few beers and rugby have always gone well together, but this was unacceptable

DK had a couple of enforced changes, with former Greens flanker James Bullock and centre Simon Fletcher unavailable (both were sorely missed) Ian Gowland moved into the centre and Richard Port onto the openside flank. Jon Shankland took Gowlands place on the left wing. Skipper Pete Knight having made a miraculous three week recovery from a dislocated kneecap returned at No 8 and Ben Connett at second row. Layton Wilkinson, Andy McEwen and Dan Shakespeare made up the bench. Whilst the DK pack was well on top of the Green’s eight for most of the game, their backs could do little right. Despite loads of good ball, distribution from the DK half backs was fitful and the ball rarely got out to the wings, both centres were well marshalled by their Greens counterparts and though DK hogged the ball for long periods there were precious few scoring opportunities created by the backs. More seriously, on the few occasions that the Greens threatened, huge holes appeared in the DK rearguard and heaven knows what damage they might have done with a little more ball!

The Greens began strongly, a strong breeze kept DK pinned in their own half but they survived the opening Green’s onslaught only to concede a try after 9 minutes. Wing Nigel Francis was penalised after a tackle and the penalty was quickly tapped for Green’s talented left winger Rewiti Viamoso to outpace the DK cover down the left hand side to score a superb individual, unconverted try out wide for the Greens to lead 5-0. It was pretty much all DK for the rest of the half though the Green’s backs always looked the sharper on the break and only a great tackle from Andy McLellan prevented another Green’s score on 25 minutes when wing Lewis Jones broke through. McLellan and Green’s Micky Dunk were yellow carded on 27 minutes before Ian Gowland reduced the arrears to 5-3 with a 30th minute penalty

Towards half time DK pressure on the home goal line intensified and the Green’s conceded 3 consecutive penalties in stoppage time. It was a defining moment in the game as Andy McLellan, against the breeze and the couple of idiots in the crowd missed all three kicks at goal.

Half Time: SCUNTHORPE 5 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

Now with the strong breeze in their favour DK redoubled their efforts and Ian Gowland was unlucky when the Greens dropped the ball in midfield, he hacked on 35m downfield but lost the ball on the line. The DK pressure continued and they were finally rewarded after 48 minutes when Gareth Davies touched down following a blindside move from a ruck on the Green’s line to give DK a 5-8 lead. Almost immediately their hard won advantage was squandered as a defensive kick following the Green’s kick off was fielded by Green’s centre Mark Watterson who carved through what seemed like most of the DK side to score close in. Tim Robinson converted and the Greens were back in the driving seat at 12-8 up. An excellent try but where was the DK cover again?

The DK pack again tried hard to redress the balance but to their credit the Greens, now with a clear chance of victory, played their best rugby of the game in the last 5 minutes and a Tim Robinson penalty after 77 minutes was followed by another tremendous virtuoso try in stoppage time from left winger Rewiti Viamoso who again left the DK back line in shreds as he cruised through from his own 10m line to score another memorable try in the corner giving the Green’s a fully deserved if slightly flattering margin of victory.

DK have no game next week. Their final league game is at home against Walsall in 2 weeks (14th April). DK’s playoff game against Beverley, near Hull (away) is a fortnight later on the 28th April. Both Kick offs are 3pm.

p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 17th March - Midlands 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 25 - DUNSTABLIANS 14

 

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Alex Francis, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ollie Shakespeare, 6 Ian Langford (Capt), 7 James Bullock, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 John Fallon, 17 Richard Port, 18 Jon Shankland

 

DK’s victory over third placed “Dees” ensured that they can finish no lower than second in Midlands one and are now certain of at least a play off spot. They can of course still win the league title in the unlikely event of Luton slipping up in one or both of their last two league games whilst DK win both of theirs.

 

This was no game for the purist, with so much at stake for both clubs it was a tense affair. DK played well in the first and last quarters of the game but their discipline in between let them down badly and a game they should have won in some comfort was only decided in the last few minutes. In the event of a playoff DK look likely to have to travel to Beverley, just north of Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire, as to date they have lost one more game than the North 1 club, though Beverley lost to Westhoe yesterday and their points difference advantage over DK was cut to 10 points. They have two games left and still have to visit fourth placed Huddersfield, so home advantage is still very much up for grabs.

 

DK had two enforced changes to their side, Layton Wilkinson replaced injured skipper Pete Knight at No 8 and Ollie Shakespeare came in for Ben Connett (work commitments) in the second row. Al Francis started at tight head prop after impressing in recent weeks with John Fallon on the bench. New signing Jon Shankland made his debut from the bench in the second half and helped create DK’s third, match clinching try. Whilst DK’s performance was pretty low key at times there were some very good performances. The back row of Ian Langford, Layton Wilkinson and James Bullock had to work very hard to make up for the loss of Pete Knight and they did well. Gareth Davies was in superb form again (if a little tempestuous at times!) but Mark Wilson’s Coaches Man of the Match was hooker Adam “Beef” Blackford whose wholehearted effort around the field and pinpoint lineout throws ensured that the loss of DK’s specialist jumper Ben Connett did not affect their lineout possession one iota. “Beef” is probably DK’s most improved player over the past few games. His props Alex Francis/John Fallon and Dan Chesham all had impressive games too.

 

ohn White missed an early penalty opportunity for Dees when Shaun Griffiths handled in the ruck but the visitors went ahead after 8 minutes when they were gifted a try. A injudicious defensive kick from DK’s Andy McLellan was run back at the home side by Dee’s South African centre Gerhard Swart who was tackled near the line by Gareth Davies but still managed to pop up a pass for scrum half Stuart Hall to run in unopposed for an unconverted try and a 0-5 lead. Stung into action DK hit back almost immediately. Great foraging from Dan Chesham turned over Dee’s ball for Gareth Davies to make a searing break through the centre, he handed on to Andy McLellan who atoned for his earlier error with an exquisite back flipped pass to Simon Fletcher that wrong footed the Dee’s cover and enabled Fletcher to race in and score at the posts. Andy McLellan converted for 7-5 on 10 minutes, then, after more heavy home pressure Dee’s N0 4 Tom King was yellow carded and Andy McLellan landed the 19th minute penalty to stretch DK’s lead to 10-5.

 

At this stage DK looked as if they would overwhelm their visitors but 5 minutes of madness before half time changed all that. Without Pete Knight DK were not quite as efficient at the breakdowns as usual and Dee’s fly half John White reduced the arrears to 10-8 after 37 minutes when the home side were penalised. Layton Wilkinson was then yellow carded for blatant offside on 39 minutes, White giving Dees a 10-11 lead from the penalty. They went 10-14 up in injury time when Gareth Davies’s dissent at another penalty saw it moved 10m forward to give White an easy kick.

 

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10 DUNSTABLIANS 14

 

14 man DK continued to live dangerously exasperating their supporters with some inappropriate “Cavalier style” rugby, throwing the ball around in their own 22 instead of using the stiff breeze to clear. After the return of Layton Wilkinson they finally managed some concerted pressure and when Dees were penalised on 54 minutes, DK executed a perfect catch and drive from the penalty lineout for Dan Chesham to be driven over for an unconverted try to restore DK’s lead at 15-14. DK were now rampant again and Dees did well to defend a couple more strong catch and drive attempts by the home side.

 

After failing to drive home their advantage DK had to defend a Dee’s catch and drive on 72 minutes and were fortunate that John White narrowly missed a 76th minute penalty for the visitors. DK then battled their way back to the other end and two great consecutive tackles from Richard Port forced Dees to give away a penalty under their own posts. Andy McLellan converted it for DK

to increase their lead to 18-14.

 

DK made sure of the points with an excellent try in stoppage time. A fine break from new wing Jon Shankland saw him round his man before feeding Gareth Davies on his inside, keeping up the momentum Davies found flanker James Bullock up in support as a good flanker should be and he scored under the posts. Andy Mclellan converted and DK were home and dry.

 

DK have no league game next week but are hoping to arrange a fixture to maintain their momentum. Their next league fixture is against Scunthorpe (away) on Saturday 31st March. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

 

Saturday 10th March - Midlands 1

BEDFORD ATHLETIC 12 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 John Fallon, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ben Connett, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bullock, 8 Pete Knight (Capt). Replacements: 16 Al Francis, 17 Richard Port, 18 Jon Shankland

DK’s tremendous win at Putnoe Woods against their old rivals Ath was tempered by the loss of their influential skipper Pete Knight who suffered a dislocation of his right patella (kneecap) after falling awkwardly midway through the second half. Knighty has been without doubt, the major driving force behind DK’s success in the current campaign and it is a huge blow to both the player and to DK that his season should be so cruelly cut short at this crucial stage. Everyone at DK wishes Pete a speedy recovery from his injury

The game was a great advert for Midlands 1 rugby. Both sides were desperate for the points but for differing reasons, DK hoping to gain promotion back into the national leagues and Ath, after a run of five consecutive defeats, to avoid the unthinkable - relegation. It was an absorbing, pulsating contest, well refereed by Ross Campbell and played in the true spirit of the game, hard but fair. Midlands 1 has been ultra competitive this season, with any of the teams in the lower half of the table being capable of beating the top sides on their day, perfectly illustrated by Ath’s 19-36 thrashing of DK at Heathbrook back in September. DK just about deserved the win this one as they won more possession and dominated territorially but they might well have been happy to take just a point ten minutes from time as Ath battled valiantly for a desperately needed result. The DK pack had a definite edge in the loose play throughout, but the home side’s talented backs were always a handful given a modicum of space, as a side, Ath certainly did not look likely relegation candidates.

Eddie Smith made a welcome return at fly half for DK and was the only change to the starting XV that beat Broadstreet a fortnight ago. The bench comprised of Al Francis, Richard Port and new signing Jon Shankland a former winger for Orrell and New Brighton. In another first class team performance there were several outstanding performances. The DK lineout was the best it has been all season with Adam “Beef” Blackford consistently hitting his jumpers and having a very sound all round game to boost the DK offensive. The back row was again outstanding against a very good Ath back row. Second rows Ben Connett and Shaun Griffiths both had top games and the front row held their own, young Al Francis making a significant impression at tight head after coming on from the bench early in the second half. Half backs Alan Mitchell and Eddie Smith played very well but the DK Coaches Man of the Match was Gareth Davies who was outstanding, his creativity and sound defence making a huge contribution to the win.

With the game less than 2 minutes old DK were caught cold when a pinpoint high kick from Ath’s venerable fly half Ashley Tapper (Ashley seems to have been playing for them forever!) eluded both DK centres and the awkward bounce left full back Andy McLellan stranded as it bounced fortuitously into the arms of Ath’s pacy left winger Simon Elphick who wasted no time at all in touching down at the posts though Simon unfortunately pulled a hamstring in the act of scoring and took no further part in the game. Ashley Tapper converted for Ath to lead 7-0. DK immediately applied heavy pressure and camped in the home half for 15 minutes. Several lineout catch and drives were well defended by Ath but after another one on 20 minutes, DK drove up to the Ath line before releasing quick ball straight down the three-quarter line to Ian Gowland who squeezed in at the corner for an excellent unconverted try to make it 7-5.

Ath struck back immediately with a good try of their own. Andy McLellan’s sliced clearance gave Ath a lineout 15 metres out from which Ath set up a rolling maul then released quick ball down the line to fullback Jamie Elphick entering the line at pace to outflank the DK cover before touching down. Tapper’s attempted conversion hit the post to leave Ath 12-5 up. Despite having well over 60% of the possession and territory DK were unable to penetrate a solid Ath rearguard before half time.

Half Time: BEDFORD ATHLETIC 12 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 5

DK began the second half with a bang; they hit their stride immediately when an incisive brake from Gareth Davies was continued by Ben Connett then Shaun Griffiths before being transferred back to Gareth Davies who surged past several defenders across the front of the posts to score close in. Andy McLellan converted and DK were level at 12-12 after 44 minutes. At this stage DK should really have sewn things up. As in the first half, they spent 10 minutes camped on the home line but somehow Ath managed to keep the DK pack at bay until the visitors were badly disrupted after 54 minutes with a serious knee injury to their skipper Pete Knight that saw him stretchered off to hospital.

Despite the loss of such an influential figure, DK continued to press. Ian Langford replaced Knight at No 8 and Richard Port came off the bench to replace Langford at blindside flanker and it worked pretty well. Shaun Griffiths looked to have scored from a rolling maul on the hour but the ball was adjudged to have been held up. Ath weathered the storm then, with 10 minutes left came back into the game strongly but DK were not going to let this one slip and defended resolutely. A crooked throw from Ath gave DK an attacking scrum in stoppage time and they drove up field, Ath conceded a penalty but Andy McLellan’s kick was just wide.

The drama was still not over, DK put a strong rolling maul together in the 6th minute of injury time and looked odds on to score before Ath hooker Swanwick pulled down the maul. He was yellow carded for his efforts and DK opted for the scrum from the resultant penalty. They drove the 7 man Ath pack back over their own line and No 8 Ian Langford picked up to dive over for the winning try. Andy McLellan converted for 12-19 and a minute or so later gleefully booted the ball into touch at end the game.

Whatever happens next, DK have proved conclusively they are a match for any side in Midlands 1 as they have now beaten every side in the division at least once.

DK are at home to Dunstablians next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 24th February - Midlands 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 29 - BROAD STREET 12

 

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 John Fallon, 4 Shaun Griffiths, 5 Ben Connett, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bullock, 8 Pete Knight (Capt). Replacements: 16 Al Francis, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Liam Reynolds

 

After a very poor patch of form that has seen DK lose four of their last six league games, they turned the corner with an emphatic, four tries to nil victory over Broadstreet who by contrast have been unbeaten in 2007 winning four and drawing one of their games in a rapid rise up the table, including an impressive 19-10 win over league leaders Luton only last week. DK coach Mark Wilson had demanded a positive response following the recent disappointments and thankfully he got it.

 

This was by no means a polished performance and there were of course all the usual errors and many missed opportunities, but crucially there was an urgency and belief in their play from the start that has been missing in the past few weeks. The body language spoke volumes and the result was that they completely outplayed their visitors who never looked remotely like scoring a try and they might well have racked up a big score had they spread the ball wide more often in an increasingly one sided second half.

 

There were several changes from last week’s line-up with centre Simon Fletcher and wing Ian Gowland back from holiday Alan Mitchell was restored to scrum half. In the forwards John Fallon came in at tight head and Ben Connett into the second row after five weeks on the sidelines. After last week’s poor show the forwards looked transformed. The front five, though creaking just a little in the set scrums, comprehensively outplayed “Street” in the loose and the visitors were reduced to some dubious strong arm tactics in attempting to redress the balance.

 

Ben Connett was a pivotal figure, outstanding in the lineout as usual but also, alongside skipper Pete Knight and Ian Langford, providing good leadership by constantly cajoling and encouraging the pack. Good communication is crucial and provided the basis for a very sound performance from the pack. The back row was again immense. Is there a better back three in Midlands 1 than Pete Knight, Ian Langford and James Bullock? The backs had a good day too; Nigel Francis was tremendous, scoring two great tries, handling superbly and solid as a rock in defence. Ian Gowland got a try and was a constant danger to the Street rearguard. Gareth Davies was inspirational and well supported by fellow centre Simon Fletcher. Alan Mitchell had an excellent game at scrum half and finally winger Liam Reynolds who made his DK debut from the bench after Tom Bissell’s injury really got stuck in with some good darting runs and a couple of eye catching tackles.

 

DK looked purposeful from the start and scored a peach of a try after just 6 minutes. Three consecutive attacking rucks and quick ball from Alan Mitchell had Street in disarray as the ball was flung down the line to right wing Nigel Francis who took it at pace to neatly step inside his man and score a text book (unconverted) try to give DK a 5-0 lead. Stung into action Street pressed hard but were comfortably held by the DK defence until fly half Dan Richards landed a 17th minute penalty for 5-3. DK quickly regained the initiative and hit Street with another fine try on 24 minutes. Great foraging by Ian Langford saw him steal the ball from the Street pack and set up an attack. The ball was again moved at pace to Nigel Francis who brilliantly touched down in the corner under pressure for another unconverted try putting DK 10-3 up.

 

Dan Richards kicked a 30th minute penalty for Street to make it 10-6 before tempers became little frayed and DK’s Shaun Griffiths and Street’s Luke Watts were binned on 34 minutes for fighting. Despite this it was clear that DK’s pace and invention were causing the visitors all manner of problems culminating in an excellent third try for the home side after 38 minutes. Good breaks from Nigel Francis and then Gareth Davies set up another swift DK attack. A huge pass from skipper Pete Knight found the ubiquitous Gareth Davies wide on the left and he sent in Ian Gowland for another fine (unconverted) try to make it 15-6 at the break.

 

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 BROADSTREET 6

 

DK missed early opportunities to increase their lead and they then lost John Fallon to a yellow card after 50 minutes for pulling down a maul. Dan Richards kicked the penalty to bring Street a little closer at 15-9. Though they were down to 14 men DK were unfazed and Andy McLellan restored their advantage with a 55th minute penalty to make the score 18-9. Dan Richards (59) and Andy McLellan (64) swapped further penalties to take the score to 21-12.

 

Finally restored to 15 players DK piled on the pressure. The visitors were now pretty much a spent force, their early belligerence had long since faded and from the Street goal line the ball was fed back into the pocket, Andy McLellan neatly dropped a goal to make it 24-12. Further heavy pressure in stoppage time resulted in a fourth try for DK when replacement flanker Andy McEwen crashed over from a maul on the Street goal line.

 

DK have now beaten every side in the league barring Bedford Athletic who they face away from home next Saturday (March 3rd) KO 3pm p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

 

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 23 - LUCTONIANS 28

Saturday 17th February - Midlands 1

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Jake Evetts, 13 Alan Mitchell, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Nigel Francis, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Ben Rimene, 1 Al Francis, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ian Langford, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Pete Knight (Capt), 7 James Bullock, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Dan Chesham, 17 Ben Connett, 18 Andy McEwan

DK’s lack of strength in depth was highlighted in another listless display. Losing at home to lowly Luctonians in front of a good crowd is probably as bad as it gets. Yes, DK were short of a few players due to holidays and injury but there can be no excuses for such an inept display from both forwards and backs. On this form they will be fortunate to end up in mid-table with promotion now just a pipe dream.

The front row, indeed the front five, just did not compete, they were second best throughout and for the third game running they lost scrum balls against the head. DK desperately need more steel and passion in this crucial area if they are to aspire to a higher level. By popular opinion, playing in the second row severely constricts Ian Langford’s natural game; he looked for more comfortable later on restored to the flank. It was a similar story in the backs where wholesale changes, some enforced, affected the balance and the back line did not function.

Good luck to Luctonians in their fight for survival, they have struggled this season but to their credit they quickly sensed DK’s vulnerability and finished worthy winners on the day. The Luc’s supporters were, as usual, in good voice, none more so than the irrepressible “Tommo” who, fortified by a modicum of pre-match hospitality, was in particularly good vocal form throughout, helpfully assisting the excellent lady referee Clare Daniels by bellowing sound (and occasionally not so sound) advice, what seemed like every ten seconds or so!!

With top try scoring wing Ian Gowland and centre Simon Fletcher on holiday and with Eddie Smith injured in training, DK brought in Jake Evetts for his debut on the left wing, Alan Mitchell filled in at centre, with Tom Bissell at fly half. Ben Rimene replaced Alan Mitchell at scrum half. Only DK’s back row came out of this debacle with honour intact, Skipper Pete Knight was named DK Coaches Man of the Match for another great performance in adversity, no one could have done more for the cause. Layton Wilkinson and James Bullock were also on top form as was Ian Langford later on.

Though Andy McLellan kicked DK 3-0 up after 2 minutes when Luc’s failed to release the ball, it was quickly apparent that the disjointed home side were all over the place. They lost the first scrum against the head and had Luc’s been a little more confident early on they might have had a couple of tries very quickly as they had a couple of 3:1 overlaps in the first ten minutes. Lucs drew level with a penalty from scrum half Chris James after 13 minutes and went ahead with a bizarre try after 17 minutes. DK full back Andy McLellan fielded a ball inside the Luc’s half then managed to fling a crass inside pass right into the arms of Luc’s centre Bruce Ruthven standing on his own, minding his own business and who gratefully received and ran 50m to the line for an unconverted try to make the score 3-8.

DK’s performance had been pretty appalling for the first 20 minutes or so but they finally got lucky after 25 minutes. Luc’s had knocked on in a promising position and as the ref played advantage Gareth Davies picked up the loose ball to break quickly down the left before releasing a perfect pass for Alan Mitchell to score close in, Andy McLellan converted for DK to lead 10-8. The lead was short lived as DK continued to make the most basic of errors then infringed to try and rescue the situation. Luc’s Chris James took full advantage, slotting penalties on 28 minutes and then 36 minutes to lead 10-14. DK’s only spark of inspiration in a dire first half came on 37 minutes by virtue of a great piece of play from Tom Bissell deep iside the Luc’s half. The young fly half stepped inside his man beautifully to break forward and feed Alan Mitchell outside him, Mitch’s short break and pass inside was snapped up by flanker James Bullock who swept in near the posts. Andy McLellan converted for DK to go in 17-14 up at the break.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 17 LUCTONIANS 14

DK tried hard initially to break free of their first half lethargy and were duly rewarded when Andy McLellan kicked them 20-14 ahead after 53 minutes. The bad habits quickly returned though and a poor kick from Ben Rimene who was coming under increasing pressure, enabled Lucs to launch a quick-fire attack through their backs. The DK back line was AWOL and right wing Mark Panniers trotted in for an easy try converted by Chris James to nudge the visitors 20-21 ahead on the hour. This seemed to knock the stuffing out of the home side and further inept defence saw them leak another soft try after 65 minutes, Lucs backs taking advantage of huge holes in the DK rearguard to route the ball through several pairs of hands, culminating in centre Bruce Ruthven sprinting in for his second try converted by Chris James for Lucs to lead 20-28

Luctonians wing Mark Panniers was rather harshly yellow carded for not rolling away after the tackle on 74 minutes and Andy McLellan kicked the penalty to make it 23-28 but it did little to inspire a DK side whose ambitions in the game had dissipated well before the end.

DK are at home to Broad Street next Saturday. KO 2.30pm. p.stinton@blueyonder.co.uk

Saturday 3rd February - Midlands 1

PETERBOROUGH 26 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 25

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy MCLellan, 14 Nigel Francis, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 8 Pete Knight (Capt), 7 James Bullock, 6 Ian Langford, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 2 Adam Blackford, 1 Dan Chesham Reps: 16 Al Francis, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Richard Port.

Leading 19-25 deep into injury time and looking quite comfortable for most of the second half after coming back from 19-13 down at half time, DK managed to claw defeat from the jaws of victory in the last play of the match. It was overall a pretty poor performance against a side that after losing several first team players for various reasons, have slipped down the Midlands 1 table and had lost their previous seven games, their last win being way back in mid November. This unexpected reverse gives DK a mountain to climb to achieve the promotion that the DK faithful were hoping for.

Ian Langford’s yellow card in injury time didn’t help much but DK should not really have been in such a vulnerable position. Throughout the game they won lots of good ball but far too often it was both aimlessly and needlessly kicked away, usually straight down the throat of the talented Boro full back Louis Kleynhams, gifting Boro far more quality possession than they would probably have managed on their own. DK looked much the better side with the ball in hand and would no doubt have many more opportunities to have put the game beyond reach of their opponents had they used the more obvious options.

Wing Nigel Francis made his first DK start for over a year after injury and had a very sound game, scoring a fine try in the process. Young prop Al Francis came onto the bench in place of John Fallon (broken nose) and had a very good spell after coming on in the second half. Generally though the DK pack played in fits and starts with only flanker James Bullock outstanding. DK’s new signing from Solihull was in great form throughout and was DK’s Man of the Match by a good way.

The game was fairly even in the early stages but DK were behind after 10 minutes when after conceding a penalty Boro opted for a catch and drive and loose head prop Nico Steenkamp burrowed over for the try. Full back Louis Kleynhans converted for Boro to lead 7-0. DK then had a good period of pressure and Simon Fletcher (2) brought them within a point at 7-6 with penalties on 13 and 23 minutes before they took the lead with a textbook try on 24 minutes. Left winger Ian Gowland made the initial break,close, slick inter passing took play up to the Boro 10m line where it was moved at pace down the three-quarter line to Nigel Francis who scored in the corner with Simon Fletcher converting from touch to put DK 7-13 up.

DK then conceded two tries, both from unforced errors. The first came from a combination of a poor kick out of defence followed by an error in midfield that saw Boro score a smartly taken try when the loose ball was turned over and passed through several pairs of hands for flanker Darian Uys to touch down with Kleynhans converting for Boro to regain the lead 14-13 after 29 minutes. The second try, in stoppage time was a little unlucky for DK. Gareth Davies’s attempted clearance was sliced and the awkward bounce was straight into the arms of Boro’s surprised but highly delighted left winger Irmis Kukulskis who could hardly fail to score. Kleynhams converted and DK were 19-13 down at half time despite having the lion’s share of possession.

Half Time: PETERBOROUGH 19 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 13

DK were a shade unlucky to be six points down and set about to immediately redress the balance. They put the Boro line under heavy fire and the host’s scrum half Wimpie Jonker was yellow carded for pulling down a promising rolling maul. From the penalty catch and drive DK made no mistake and lock Shaun Griffiths was driven over for an unconverted try to make the score 19-18 after 51 minutes. DK repeated the dose after more heavy pressure on 58 minutes. They drove a maul fully 20m up to the Boro line where Dan Chesham scored. Simon Fletcher converted and DK seemed to be on their way at 19-25 up.

Unfortunately, instead of continuing in the same vein, keeping the ball in hand and ruthlessly going for the kill, DK seemed content to play out time and handed the initiative to Boro with some poor defensive kicking. The home side tried hard but even then DK were under no real pressure until they lost Ian Langford to a yellow card for not rolling away, in injury time. The home side saw their last possible opportunity and to their credit they managed to crab across to the posts from a rolling maul against DK’s depleted pack, where replacement prop Jeff Watt claimed the try. The conversion from under the posts was a formality for Kleynhans and DK paid a harsh penalty for misusing superior possession.

DK have no game next week. They are at home to Luctonians a week later on Saturday 17th February. KO 2.30pm.

Saturday 27th January - Midlands 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 37 - MARKET BOSWORTH 0

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell , 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 John Fallon, 4 Ollie Shakespeare, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford, 7 James Bulloch, 8 Pete Knight. (Capt) Replacements: 16 Dan Shakespeare, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Nigel Francis.

DK’s Yo-Yo form of the past few weeks continued as they hammered Market Bosworth by five tries to nil, making a mockery of their limp performance at Whitchurch in the North Midlands Cup last weekend. Despite the scoreline MB were certainly no pushover, their set piece play was flawless, they won excellent lineout ball and generally gave DK a tough test in the scrums whereas failure to provide regular accurate ball for their jumpers lost DK quite a lot of possession with which they might well have hit fifty points.

DK’s strength was in the loose where they won the game hands down; they overwhelmed their visitors to such an extent that they dominated 75-80% of the game territorially and try as they might MB just could not break this stranglehold. Importantly DK managed to keep their discipline this week, keeping all 15 players on the field meant there was no respite for MB and this told on the opposition in the last quarter.

DK were back at full strength for this game with skipper Pete Knight returning at No 8, Eddie Smith at fly half and Gareth Davies in the centre. Ollie Shakespeare returned from injury to replace Ben Connett in the second row. New signing from Solihull James Bullock started at openside flanker after an impressive debut off the bench last week. There were any number of candidates for Man of the Match with skipper Pete Knight, Ian Langford, Eddie Smith, Simon Fletcher (22 points -2T,3C,2P), Gareth Davies Ian Gowland and new boy James Bullock all having excellent games, but Mark Wilson’s Man of the Match was full back Andy McLellan for his authoritative and much improved performance at full back. Recent concerns with his kicking out of hand were soon forgotten and his confidence grew visibly as the game progressed.

Excellent early enterprise from Eddie Smith saw DK pressing on the visitor’s line and from a scrum inside the MB 22 the ball was spread wide to Gareth Davies whose sublime step and pinpoint pass to fellow Simon Fletcher saw his fellow centre glide in to touch down near the posts after 5 minutes for an unconverted try and a 5-0 lead. The next 35 minutes or so proved highly frustrating for DK as they almost totally dominated the game but just could not add to their lead. Simon Fletcher was wide with penalties on 22 and 36 minutes but a combination of unforced errors and resolute defence from MB denied DK until Simon Fletcher kicked a penalty in stoppage time to increase the home lead to 8-0 at half time.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8 MARKET BOSWORTH 0

DK again pressed hard at the start and after a couple of near misses they went further ahead on 49 minutes when after a maul deep inside the MB 22 DK probed the blind side and super hands from Gareth Davies sent in Ian Gowland for an excellent unconverted try to increase the DK lead to 13-0. DK now moved up a gear and Ian Gowland was unlucky to see his chip ahead scrambled away on 53 minutes. By now Layton Wilkinson had replaced Ollie Shakespeare and his dynamic presence really shook up the visitors pack. On 52 minutes and after overwhelming pressure Ian Langford drove over near the posts and Simon Fletcher converted for 20-0. MB then lost flanker Steve Morfill to a yellow card for hands in the ruck. Simon Fletcher kicked the penalty for DK to lead 23-0.

Market Bosworth made a concerted effort to take the game to DK but the home side sealed the result after 66 minutes when a superbly timed interception from Simon Fletcher saw him race 75m to score. Fletcher then converted his own try and DK were home and dry at 30-0 up. MB had another flurry but great defence from Simon Fletcher and Nigel Francis prevented a score and DK turned over the ball and surged forward, good hands again from Gareth Davies and Andy McLellan found Ian Gowland in space albeit about 70m out from the MB line. The winger pinned back his ears and went for it, rounding MB’s hapless full back en route to score a glorious try at the posts, his 6th in 3 weeks. Simon Fletcher again converted to complete the scoring for DK.

DK are away for their first ever visit to Peterborough RFC next week. KO 2.15pm.

 

Saturday 20th January - North Midlands Cup

WHITCHURCH 27 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 22

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Ian Gowland, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Alan Mitchell (Capt), 1 John Fallon, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Andy McEwen, 7 Richard Port, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Russ Gauden, 17 Dan Chesham, 18 Ollie Shakespeare, 19 Ian Langford, 20.James Bullock, 21 Ben Rimene, 22 Kirk Munro.

When DK’s coach Mark Wilson said that the North Midlands Cup was not a priority, he couldn’t have expected his team to take it quite so literally! There is no point in beating around the bush; this was an abject performance, most of the first half was a shambles from a DK point of view, they missed first up tackles, were undisciplined and the kicking out of hand from experienced players was again generally woeful, with only young Tom Bissell seeming to have a clue where the touchline was! Whitchurch are a league below DK in North 2 West and were low on confidence having lost their last five games including a 35-0 hammering at the hands of Vale of Lune in last Saturday’s league match, however they were well up for this game and wanted it more. They tackled like demons and showed plenty of flair in attack with inside centre Mike Swetman outstanding, breaking the shaky DK back line almost at will. There can be no complaints from DK who were deservedly beaten by the better side on the day. The sides scored four tries apiece but Mike Swetman’s proficient boot ensured that Whitchurch went through to the Semi Final. As one of the favourites to win the NM Cup, DK’s defeat is potentially a very costly one for the club as the winners automatically qualify for next season’s EDF Energy Senior Cup and even first round losers in this competition receive several thousand pounds for their efforts.

Discipline, or rather indiscipline, is an area certain players need to address. Two yellow cards for foul play at a crucial stage in the game, just when they seemed to be getting back on top, effectively ended their challenge. The first, awarded against Shaun Griffiths for stamping occurred after the excellent referee Gareth Masters had already given DK a penalty, unforgivable! The second, also for stamping, was against captain for the day Alan Mitchell – his fourth yellow card of the season - and occurred when DK were in a good field position, pressing hard near the home line. Both lads are excellent players for the club but were no use at all to their team mates whilst kicking their heels on the touchline.

With players being rested or unavailable, DK had to experiment a little in the back row and the backs. Richard Port returned on the open side flank with Andy McEwen at blind side and Layton Wilkinson at No 8 and Ian Langford on the bench. Tom Bissell deputised for Eddie Smith at fly half and Tom Weaver for Gareth Davies at inside centre. Tui Asi Pito replaced the injured Warren Port on the right wing. New signing from Solihull, James Bullock was on the bench and immediately caught the eye with a fine 20 minute cameo appearance in the second half, topping it off with a smartly taken try. The DK back row was less effective than normal but No 8 Layton Wilkinson, despite carrying a knock from last week, was still the best forward on the field. The DK Coaches Man of the Match was left wing Ian Gowland, who was always a threat and bagged another two well taken tries besides an excellent 10 minutes as an emergency scrum half when Mitch was in the bin.

DK made the worst possible start. A simple defensive kick to touch was missed and Whitchurch immediately ran the ball back at their visitors with centre Mark Williams touching down after easily cutting through DK’s floundering rearguard. Mike Swetman converted and the hosts were 7-0 up inside a minute. Though Simon Fletcher missed a 13th minute penalty for DK they were still reeling from the opening score and it took Man of the Match Ian Gowland to steady their nerves after 14 minutes. The winger kicked ahead then raced 25m to tackle the catcher into touch. From the lineout the ball was spread wide right where Ian Gowland popped up on the other wing to score a fine try making it 7-5. More forward pressure from Whitchurch saw DK penalised and Mike Swetman increased the home lead to 10-5 after 21 minutes.

This score seemed to sting DK into action and they hit back quickly when John Fallon was driven over from a tremendously powerful driving maul on 21 minutes, Simon Fletcher added the conversion for DK to lead 10- 12. Though in front DK were not playing with any real conviction and on 31 minutes they conceded a second try when, after conceding two penalties in quick succession and were unable to react when quick hands found Whitchurch right wing Rob Jones in space and he scored an unconverted try wide out to make it 15-12. DK were sorely missing the experience of Eddie Smith and Gareth Davies in their back division and after 38 minutes Whitchurch scored again after turning over possession in midfield and again running the overstretched DK rearguard ragged, scrum half Rich Baxter cruising in from near halfway for another unconverted try to make it 20-12 and leaving DK with a second half mountain to climb.

Half Time: WHITCHURCH 20 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12

DK did not improve at the restart and fell further behind after 48 minutes. They missed yet another simple penalty to touch in the home 22 and Whitchurch surged strongly up field and into the DK 22 where they set up a rolling maul from which flanker Paul Appleby was driven over for their fourth try. Mike Swetman converted to put Whitchurch 27-12 up and DK had handed the opposition yet another try from an unforced error.

DK rallied strongly and a tapped penalty after 52 minutes saw the ball moved quickly to Ian Gowland who shredded the home cover for his second and DK’s third try. The visitors at long last seemed to be getting their act together and the Whitchurch were showing the first signs of fatigue when DK went and shot themselves in the foot. Yellow cards for Shaun Griffiths and Alan Mitchell after 53 and 59 minutes respectively pretty much ended DK’s hopes in the game. Perversely even with 13 men they still managed to take the game to the tiring Whitchurch side and had Simon Fletcher passed to Gowland on 58 minutes DK would almost certainly have scored, DK’s pressure eventually told after 67 minutes when, still a player short they pressed the home line from a penalty catch and drive before moving the ball right to debutant flanker James Bullock who powered over in the corner for an unconverted try to make it 27-22.

Incredibly, DK missed another penalty for touch which would have taken play deep into the home 22, then a poor final pass from Andy McLellan on 76 minutes robbed the hapless Gowland of another certain try. Whitchurch may have ridden their luck a little in the final minutes but DK simply did not deserve to win this one. DK are at home to Market Bosworth (L) next Saturday. KO 2.15 pm. p.stinton@btinternet.com

Saturday 13th January - Midlands 1

SOUTH LEICESTER 14 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Simon Fletcher, 11 Warren Port, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 John Fallon, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Andy McEwen, 7 Pete Knight (Capt), 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Dan Chesham, 17 Tui Asi Pito, 18 Kirk Munro.

DK’s performance in a nail biting win on their first ever visit to the friendly South Leicester club was a one hundred per cent improvement on their turgid performance against Longton last week. It had to be, SL are a very tough side to beat on their own ground, prior to this game they had only lost one game at home, to leaders Luton in their first home league game of the season. It was an absorbing game, the lead changing hands several times, SL could have won it at the death but full back John Boden was wide with a penalty in the 9th minute of stoppage time allowing DK to take the points in a narrow, but fully deserved victory.

With the exception of a couple of early errors, the lineout functioned pretty well with no repeat of last week’s problems but DK are still wasting far too many penalty opportunities by their odd inability to get the ball off the park. The simple process of kicking the ball into touch even with yesterday’s swirling gale like conditions should not really pose much of a problem, should it? Goal kicking though was nigh on impossible and Simon Fletcher had little chance with his five kicks at goal whereas in normal conditions he could well have scored another 8/10 or more points. Overall however this was an excellent team performance against a strong and very committed opposition

Things did not begin well for DK. Dan Chesham had a knee problem during the warm up and was replaced in the front row by John Fallon. With Ian Langford still absent Andy McEwen again deputised on the blindside flank. The DK pack was much more effective and tenacious unit this week with DK Coaches Man of the Match Layton Wilkinson outstanding in the loose. SL just could not handle his powerful bursts from the base of the scrum and he caused havoc for the home side all afternoon. Skipper Pete Knight was pretty awesome in the loose too and young Andy McEwen improves with every game. Brought into the action early, John Fallon had a good game on the loose head, showing several nice touches. The backs were pretty good too, strong games from Mitch, Eddie Smith and centres Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher. Warren Port made several good breaks on the right wing and scored the final try whilst left wing Ian Gowland showed his class, touching the ball twice in the game and scoring two tries.

Control was extremely difficult in the gale force wind blowing across the pitch but DK made a positive start against the elements and made most of the early running. Simon Fletcher was wide with penalties on 11 and 25 minutes though accurate kicking was almost impossible at this stage with the wind at its strongest. SL’s open side flanker Adam Wheatley was yellow carded on 25 minutes for coming in from the side but DK were unable to take advantage and it was 14 man SL who surprisingly took the lead against the run of play with a try after 33 minutes.

SL won a ruck just outside the DK 22 and the ball was moved open where it was knocked on but quickly retrieved. Unfortunately the otherwise excellent referee was unsighted, still on the blindside of the ruck. The ball was then cleverly chipped over the advancing DK cover by fly half Mark Lord for centre Keiran Collins to collect and touch down at the posts. Full back John Boden converted for SL to lead 7-0.

DK then had a couple of chances, surging breaks from the in-form Layton Wilkinson then Ben Connett put Warren Port away but he was hauled down just short and SL scrambled the ball away. Another Warren Port break shortly after ended in similar fashion before DK reduced the arrears with a try in first half stoppage time. Yet another rampaging break from Layton Wilkinson then superb hands from Gareth Davies and Andy McLellan sent in Ian Gowland to make it 7-5 at half time.

Half Time: SOUTH LEICESTER 7 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 5

DK hit the ground running at the start of the second half. SL full back John Boden failed to make touch from inside his 22, Andy McLellan fielded the ball on the right and swung over a huge infield pass to Ian Gowland who, spotting that the South cover was fragmented made an arcing run at great pace to outflank the whole SL rearguard and score a superb unconverted try wide out to give DK the lead 7-10 on 41 minutes.

Now with the elements in their favour, DK looked to increase their lead but good defence from SL kept them at bay before indiscipline led directly to a SL try after 63 minutes when DK were penalised for foul play. SL tapped and ran, constantly picking up and driving – one of their most effective ploys - up to the DK line where lock Adam Cox forced his way over, John Boden miraculously, in the conditions, converted it and SL were back in business at 14-10 up. Ben Connett then, not for the first time this season, saved DK’s bacon by a superb leap to steal an SL lineout throw 5m out from the line as the home side pressed to seal the game.

DK hit back strongly and took the game to SL, then after a series of drives on the SL line the ball was whipped out to the backs where an excellent long pass from Andy McLellan gave Warren Port, who injured an elbow in the act of scoring, just enough room to squeeze in at the corner for an unconverted try allowing DK to nose ahead 14-15 after 71 minutes. DK played out normal time without too many problems but in the 10 minutes of injury time they conceded two penalties, both difficult kicks which to the immense relief of the DK faithful, Boden sent wide. Not too many sides will come away from South Leicester RFC with a result this season and DK can take pride in a job well done.

DK are away at Whitchurch next week in the quarter final of the North Midlands Cup. KO 2.15 pm.

Saturday 6th January - Midlands Division 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 6 - LONGTON 17

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Simon Fletcher, 11 Warren Port, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6, Pete Knight (Capt) 7 Richard Port, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 John Fallon, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Kirk Munro.

Incompetence and indiscipline were the hallmarks of DK’s unexpected reversal at the hands of lowly Longton who fully deserved their win as they were the better side overall. However, they will rarely get handed as much gift-wrapped possession by their opposition as they were yesterday. Despite having two of the best lineout jumpers in the league in Ben Connett and Shaun Griffiths DK hooker Adam Blackford had one of those days and just could not locate them. DK lost a lot of their own ball inside the Longton 22 and it made a huge impact on their attacking options. DK’s kicking out of hand was also woeful with full back Andy MCLellan unable to find touch from several attacking penalties, some well inside the Longton half. By contrast Tony Wheat the veteran Longton full back gave a master class in the art of both goal kicking and kicking out of hand that regularly kept DK at bay. To add to this fairly deplorable state of affairs scrum half Alan Mitchell picked up another yellow card for stamping as a Longton hand was preventing release of the ball.

Unlike their hosts, Longton’s basics were spot on. They were very strong in both set scrums and lineouts and although DK had a clear edge in the loose, they were unable to exploit it fully, mainly because of the aforementioned flaws in their game. Longton’s tight head prop Brookes was the cornerstone of their pack and though he looked “older than God’s dog” (as a joker in the crowd quaintly put it), he was hugely influential, especially in the first half. With their inspirational flanker Ian Langford out of the side through illness, DK skipper Pete Knight moved to No 6 with Richard Port at No 7 and Layton Wilkinson at No 8. Whilst under early pressure in the scrums, the DK pack soon settled down to play well, with the back row again outstanding. No one tried harder than DK Man of the Match - Shaun Griffiths who refused to be intimidated by several cynical cheap shots and was outstanding in the loose. The DK backs were generally well contained by Longton, though the ball they got had very often been expertly slowed down by the visitors pack who led a charmed life, hapless referee Nick Ashton missing several such incidents in a game he will want to quickly forget.

The Longton pack was a handful from the start and DK were under immediate pressure. Centre Paul Green kicked Longton 0-3 up after 14 minutes when DK were caught offside. DK soon got into their stride after this and Eddie Smith dummied through on 18 minutes only to be denied just short by a fine tackle from the Longton winger. Simon Fletcher kicked DK level on 21 minutes when Longton were offside and DK were beginning to worry the visitors with their pace. On the half hour and just when it seemed that DK were getting on top, Alan Mitchell attempt to free the ball at a ruck on the visistors line resulted in his yellow card ruining a good scoring opportunity, taking the pressure off Longton and leaving DK with 14 men. Longton immediately upped the ante and after two well defended scrums on the DK line the referee awarded a penalty try to Longton. The scrum was slowly moving sideways with the visitor’s No 8 on his knees with the ball wedged between them, he was in no position to drive forward or score, but it was given and Paul Green’s conversion saw Longton lead 3-10 after 37 minutes.

DK then got caught cold with a sucker punch. From a lineout near the DK 22 in stoppage time, three of the four Longton front jumpers moved back quickly just before the ball was thrown in. All of DK’s front jumpers followed them, leaving the Longton number 1 jumper a clear run down the touchline his pass inside found hooker Craig Wilson up in support to crash over virtually unopposed. This was a well thought out ploy that saw DK 3-17 down at half time.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3 LONGTON 17

DK piled on early pressure forcing Longton to give away penalties but the home side could not get the ball off the park for an attacking throw and when they did, the throw usually ended up in Longton’s hands. DK frittered away numerous opportunities to get back into the game in the third quarter by their catalogue of unforced errors and only had a 54th minute Simon Fletcher penalty (making it 6-17), to show for it.

Longton weathered the storm and the last ten minutes were played mainly in midfield with the visitors taking few chances in what was to be a rare victory for them at Heathbrook. DK had a last minute surge but John Fallon was penalised on the Longton line summing up a miserable day all round for the Heathbrook crowd of around 500, despite the atrocious conditions and who must have been sorely disappointed with their team on the day.

DK are away at South Leicester next week KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@btinternet.com

Saturday 16th December - Midlands Division 1

LUTON 13 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Simon Fletcher, 11 Warren Port, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford, 7 Pete Knight (Capt), 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Alex Francis, 17 Robert Chivers, 18 Kirk Munro.

Luton finally laid their Dudley bogey at Newlands with their first ever win against the Black Country boys at the fifth time of asking. The league leaders deserved their win for a gritty, committed performance and an outstanding defence under pressure; they now look odds on certainties for promotion. The home side made far fewer errors than DK who were very disappointed to lose, despite having the lion’s share of possession and territory overall, they were unable to unlock the home side’s resolute defences. DK also spurned a number of kickable penalties, opting for lineout catch and drives instead. In such a close game and with Luton’s defence in mean mood these were conceivably questionable options. Overall the result was a fair one and it leaves the sides with honours even for the season.

Perhaps even more so than their talented opposition, the major problem for DK on the day was their sheer number of unforced errors they committed, losing the ball in contact and poor handling being particular and continual weaknesses, resulting in numerous promising attacking build-ups being squandered throughout the game. The uncharacteristic profligacy of their visitors eased the pressure on Luton at crucial times and affected DK’s momentum. On the plus side DK were stronger than Luton in the set scrums, taking two balls against the head and locks Ben Connett and Shaun Griffiths were again superb in the lineout, winning all their own ball and stealing several Luton throws, but the home side were a little more dynamic in the loose where their back row more than matched DK’s very competent back three.

DK were hampered somewhat in their preparations for the game by the late loss of key open-side flanker Richard Port (illness). DK re-jigged their back row with skipper Pete Knight at open-side and Layton Wilkinson at No 8, otherwise the side was the same as against Scunthorpe 2 weeks ago. Whilst the DK pack were superior in the set pieces the Luton eight were tenacious in the loose and it made for an absorbing game. DK Coaches Man of the Match was centre Simon Fletcher whose astute line kicks kept DK on the front foot for long periods and his excellent defence, saving a certain try with a superb tackle in the second half from a Luton breakaway.

After four straight losses to DK, Luton began the game in determined fashion and pinned the visitors inside their own half. Strong forward pressure in the loose provided the platform for their early crucial score and what proved to be the only try of the game. After 11 minutes Luton won a ruck in front of the DK posts and scrum half Steve Gray was stopped just short but from the re-formed ruck the same player wriggled over from close range. Fly Half Mark Gray slotted the conversion to put Luton 7-0 up. DK by now had come more into the game and put several good phases together but on every occasion they ended up by either losing the ball in contact or knocking on. From one such error on 25 minutes, Luton swept back inside the DK half where a snap drop goal effort from Mark Gray 35m out, bounced in off the crossbar to increase the Luton lead to 10-0.

DK totally controlled the last 15 minutes of the half, spending the last 10 camped on the Luton goal line but despite coming close on several occasions they were unable to penetrate the well drilled home defences. During this time they had three catch and drive opportunities, two of them from penalties whereas points in the bag might have added more momentum and sowed a little doubt into Luton. As it was, the home side survived with their 10-0 lead intact up until half time whistle.

Half Time: LUTON 10 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

A brilliant break from Ian Gowland shredded the Luton cover straight after half time; he managed to get the ball away before being tackled but a then wild pass ruined the move when a try looked “on”. DK kept up the pressure and Simon Fletcher kicked their only points with a 55th minute penalty to make it 10-3. This should have been the signal for an all out DK offensive but just after Luton had kicked off, DK were awarded a penalty inside their own 22, instead of kicking long for touch and winning the lineout, DK, for some unaccountable reason chose to tap and run - and yes, the ball was then lost in contact!! DK then immediately gave a penalty away to give Mark Gray the easiest of kicks to make it 13-3 to Luton on the hour. You couldn’t make it up!

Luton had very few opportunities after this though it needed a superb cover tackle from Simon Fletcher on 71 minutes to stop a Luton breakaway attack. Frustrated and stung into action by these niggling errors DK tried very hard to break down Luton in the last quarter of the game, lots of pressure and well inside the home half, but try as they might they could not find a way through. No doubt with the second half mauling they received at Heathbrook in November still fresh in their minds the Luton lads were determined not to let this one slip!

DK’s next First XV league fixture is at home to Longton on 6th January KO 2.00.

The traditional Boxing Day fixture between DK 2nds and Stourbridge 2nds is at Stourbridge. KO 11am.

Saturday 9th December - North Midlands Cup - Preliminary Round

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 NEWPORT 11

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Tom Weaver, 11 Warren Port, 10 Tom Bissell, 9 Kirk Munro, 1 Alex Francis, 2 Chris Condliffe, 3 John Fallon, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Jamie Harding, 6 Andy McEwen 7 Richard Port, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Russ Gauden, 17 Neil Chivers, 18 Robert Chivers, 19 Ryan Wickets, 20, Jacob Evetts, 21, Liam Reynolds

Compared with DK’s champagne form of recent weeks, this fairly dour North Midlands Cup game provided rather more basic fare. Having made no less than ten changes to the side that thrashed Scunthorpe last week; this was perhaps understandable as the home side struggled to find any kind of rhythm, especially in a dreadful first half. Whatever the game lacked in terms of quality however was mitigated by the tremendous physical effort put in by both sides and taking into consideration the large number of changes, DK did superbly well to come back and win the game from being 0-11 down just before half time against a tough and committed Newport side who are lying 3rd in Midlands 2 West with eight wins from eleven games to their credit. Newport, with former DK winger Marc Millward on one flank, certainly had their chances and will be rueing a couple of glaring misses either side of half time. DK generally had the upper hand in the pack, but struggled badly with painfully slow ball to their backs from the set pieces and both rucks and mauls. On a lighter note Neil and Robert Chivers became the first ever twins to play together in DK’s 1st XV watched by their proud dad Tony.

DK made six changes in the pack including the whole front row of Alex Francis, Chris Condliffe and John Fallon. Jamie Harding came into the second row and Andy McEwen and Richard Port into the back row. There were four changes in the backs including half back pair Kirk Munro and Tom Bissell, centre Tom Weaver and Andy McLellan at full back. Richard Port was probably the best player on the park and was DK Coaches Man of the Match for another superb performance at open side flanker. He was everywhere, especially in defence, rescuing the DK backs on more than one occasion with decisive try saving tackles. Hooker Chris Condliffe also caught the eye with several barnstorming trundles and Ben Connett, crucially, took three consecutive Newport throws inside the DK 22 just before the final whistle when Newport were striving desperately to save the game. Andy McLellan had a sound game at full back after returning from injury.

The opening 10 minutes were played almost exclusively between the 10m “tram lines” as both sides probed for openings. The visitors gradually inched forward and their pressure produced a try after 17 minutes when Tom Bissell was a tad unlucky to see his attempted clearance charged down by Newport flanker Richard Harris who also got the luck of the bounce to touch down over the line and give the visitors a 0-5 lead. Compared to recent weeks the game seemed to be being played at half pace, DK in particular were unable to get the ball out at pace from the scrums and rucks, starving their backs of any space to work in. The visitors went 0-8 up on 34 minutes with a penalty from scrum half Jamie Simpson then they increased their lead to 0-11 with another penalty from the same player on 37 minutes, Gareth Davies’s dissent sending DK back a further 10m to make Simpson’s kick a formality.

Newport then missed out on what could have been a match winning score as they broke through the DK cover on the left only for Richard Port (who else!) to appear from nowhere to flatten the would be scorer. DK finally shook off their lethargy to score a try in stoppage time when they shoved Newport back over their own line from a 5m scrum for No 8 Layton Wilkinson to pick up and power over. Tom Bissell converted and DK were back in it at only 7-11 down.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7 NEWPORT 11

DK looked far more interested after the break as they battered away at Newport’s goal line for the first 5 minutes. One excellent opportunity was wasted by not moving the ball wide but then after 46 minutes an excellent forward break from Chris Condliffe saw him smash right through the Newport pack, the ball was quickly moved wide from the resulting ruck for Ian Gowland to streak over wide out for a fine try that put DK 12-11 up. Less than a minute later Newport had a golden opportunity to increase their lead further but their ball carrier seemed to look for a tackler when it looked easier to score! Ian Gowland duly obliged him with a superb tackle that prevented a certain try.

DK resumed the offensive and had the visitor’s hanging on by the skin of their teeth for a good 10 minutes before a well struck penalty from Tom Bissell put DK 15-11 up after 62 minutes. Newport tried hard to get back into the game after this but the home side defended well and kept their focus. DK had a few anxious moments before the end with a couple of poor options being taken from the base of the scrum, resulting in turnovers to Newport. Fortunately for DK, Newport’s final efforts were eclipsed when Ben Connett’s lineout heroics snuffed out their late rally with three consecutive “steals” against the throw inside the last 10 minutes.

DK are away at Luton next week for their crunch league encounter with the league leaders. KO 2.15pm.

Saturday 2nd December

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 39 - SCUNTHORPE 5

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Kirk Munro, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Warren Port, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford 7 Pete Knight (Capt), 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Al Francis, 17 Andy McEwen, 18 Tom Bissell.

In recording their eighth consecutive league win DK played some of their best rugby for years in a cracking first half performance that saw them 34-0 up at the break having scored five unanswered tries. It was not as if Scunthorpe - always tough opponents - were particularly poor, but DK started well and just got better. All of their tries resulted from excellent movements, brilliant handling and pace. The Greens battled hard throughout as shown by their stiff second half resistance but they were simply outclassed by a rampant DK in the first period.

In the second half DK lost some shape due to a couple of injuries and several replacements but they had effectively won the game with their scintillating play in the opening 40 minutes. With Tui Asi Pito back in New Zealand following the sudden death of his father, Warren Port replaced him on the wing with Kirk Munro at full back. Layton Wilkinson was at No 8 with Andy McEwen taking his turn on the bench. In another tremendous all round DK team performance it was a very difficult for Mark Wilson to pick out his Man of the Match. In the pack Ben Connett had a great game, he was unbelievably good in the lineout taking the opposition ball at will and the pace and quality of the ball he and fellow second row Shaun Griffiths delivered off the top gave the DK backs a huge space advantage, enabling them to create overlaps time and again. Always a talented ball player Ben looks back to his best form following illness. Both locks were also very strong in the loose. The front and back rows were at their best with Langy and Knighty working like Trojans leaving Wilko to blast huge holes through the Green’s pack. The backs had a good day too. Both half backs were in great form, Mitch back to his feisty best and nobody, not even the fearsome Andy Fish got past DK’s extraordinary fly half Eddie Smith. Both centres, Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher were superb in attack and defence. These lads have had a tough time recently, both losing their mums in recent weeks and it was Gareth Davies who edged the Coaches Man of the Match award for a truly inspired performance, drawing praise not only from DK supporters but also from several of the opposition players and supporters. Ian Gowland scored 2 tries with fellow wing Warren Port setting up one of them.

DK opened the scoring on 3 minutes when the Greens were offside in front of their posts. Simon Fletcher kicked the penalty to put DK 3-0 up. After twice kicking away good attacking opportunities DK increased their lead after 10 minutes with a superb try. Super quick ball off the top of a lineout from Shaun Griffiths in the Green’s 22 was speedily whipped out to Gareth Davies whose subtle inside pass saw Ian Gowland steaming up on an angle to dart 25m to the posts. Simon Fletcher converted for 10-0. Now well into their stride DK hit the Greens with a second try on 17 minutes when Alan Mitchell dummied to go left then switched to the right feeding skipper Pete Knight who made a powerful and incisive arcing break into the Green’s 22 before sending in full back Kirk Munro for a try in the corner to make it 15-0. The Greens lost centre Anthony Carpenter to a yellow card on 26 mins for persistent infringements and began to look more than a little ragged. DK duly scored a third try after 28 mins. Ben Connett rose superbly to steal a Green’s lineout ball inside the 22, it was moved quickly into midfield where Ian Langford did extremely well to rescue the ball and feed Pete Knight who forced his way over from 10m to make it 20-0.

Two minutes later it was 27-0 when Ian Gowland picked up a loose ball infield it was spun quickly wide to Simon Fletcher in space, who broke forward for 30m before dummying his man to sprint a further 25m to the posts to score and then convert his own try. In trying to halt DK’s momentum the Greens were forced into giving penalties away and on 37 minutes DK opted for a scrum from one of them about 20m out from the Green’s line. Pete Knight broke from No 8 almost to the line before his inside pass saw Layton Wilkinson crash over for DK’s 5th try of the afternoon converted by Simon Fletcher for 34-0. Further disaster then struck the visitors when replacement back Mickey Coult received a red card for abusing the referee Gareth Masters.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 34 SCUNTHORPE 0

14 man Scunthorpe threw everything into attack at the start of the second half and spent a fruitless 10 minutes battering away in the DK 22 without scoring. Their main ploy seeming to be to feed their powerful No 8 and former prop Andy Fish, using him to try and batter a way through DK’s defences and though he certainly did his utmost, he was generally well policed by the DK back row (and Eddie Smith!). DK again got on top and a superb, tenacious 30m break from Gareth Davies deserved a try but he was just unable to hold onto the ball when over the Green’s line.

DK did score their 6th try after 63 minutes when fine play by young Andy McEwen saw the flanker draw two men before offloading to Warren Port wide on the left. The winger beat several men before a perfect inside pass found fellow wing Ian Gowland up in support to take the scoring pass making it 39-0. A couple of injuries to Shaun Griffiths and Simon Fletcher and several replacements meant that DK lost a little of their shape after this and understandably, were just unable to find their earlier rhythm.

DK themselves played with 14 men for the last quarter having run out of replacements and to their credit Scunthorpe kept plodding away and five minutes from time were rewarded with a consolation try from lock Luke Scargill making the final score 39-5.

DK have no league game next week but play Newport at home in the North Midlands Cup 1st Round KO 1.30 pm.

Saturday 25th November

WALSALL 22 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 38

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Warren Port, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Gareth Davies, 11 Tui Asi Pito, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Alan Mitchell, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Adam Blackford, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford 7 Pete Knight (Capt), 8 Andy McEwen. Replacements: 16 Al Francis, 17 Layton Wilkinson, 18 Kirk Munro

This was always going to be a game of two halves due to the boggy, sloping Delves Road pitch and the stiff breeze blowing down the ground. With the elements first half, Walsall capitalised on basic defensive errors from DK, who despite having the lion’s share of possession and territory found themselves three tries to one, 22-7 down at half time. Two of the tries were long distance, blindside efforts from the base of scrums with the DK cover nowhere to be seen and the third Walsall try saw centre Adam Coniff slice through several ineffective tackles. Sandwiched between these was a gem of a try from Eddie Smith for DK. The second half saw DK tighten up considerably to pile on the pressure down the slope and score four unanswered tries, the home side found it increasingly difficult to get out of their own half.

Considering the slippery conditions there were several passages of excellent rugby during the game with Walsall playing a full part, they have some excellent backs and their handling in the trying conditions was often superior to their DK counterparts. Where the home side really struggled was up front where DK were for the most part in total control especially in the second when the home eight hardly got a sniff of the ball. With Andy McLellan still injured Warren Port deputised at full back. Gareth Davies returned to inside centre with Alan Mitchell preferred to Kirk Munro at scrum half. Andy McEwen replaced Richard Port (illness) in the back row. Second rows Ben Connett and Shaun Griffiths were on top form in both the lineout and the loose. Props Dan Shakespeare and Dan Chesham were rock solid but it was hooker Adam “Beef” Blackford who was named DK Coaches Man of the Match for a dynamic all action performance in his first game for the senior XV for several months. The back row played well as individuals but without a recognised open side flanker there were too many defensive gaps left in the first half. The DK half backs Alan Mitchell and Eddie Smith both had good games as did Simon Fletcher in the centre whose 23 point haul included 2 tries, all five conversions and a penalty.

Walsall took the game to DK straight from the kick off. With the wind behind them and playing down the slope they camped in the DK 22 and took a 3-0 lead with a penalty from fly half Matt Wood after 4 mins. DK gradually began to assert themselves up front but fell further behind after 15 minutes when Rod Dickson did well to pick up from the base as DK shoved the home scrum backwards. The Walsall No 8 then broke powerfully to gallop 60m to the line for a fine try though DK must have been very disappointed that he was not tackled. Wood converted and Walsall were 10-0 up.

DK redoubled their efforts and despite spilling a couple of gilt edged chances close to the line, their pressure told after 22 minutes when a terrific break through the middle from skipper Pete Knight set up a ruck from which the ball was spun out to Eddie Smith. His sublime one handed dummy mesmerising the Walsall cover as the DK fly half glided through to the posts for a wonderful try. Simon Fletcher converted to make it 10-7. Walsall replied almost immediately when scrum half Dean Wilson broke from midfield making 50m unchallenged before sending in skipper Richard Marsh for the try, Matt Wood converting for 17-7. Again this was an excellent try for Walsall, but poor defence from DK. Sloppy tackling let DK down again on the half hour when Walsall centre Adam Coniff sliced through several half hearted tackles to put the home side 22-7 up.

Though Walsall had scored three tries in 15 minutes by taking their chances well, DK by contrast had exerted plenty of pressure but through a combination of poor handling and over ambitious passing in the wet conditions had only a converted try to show at half time for all their efforts.

Half time: WALSALL 22 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7

It was quickly apparent that Walsall were going to struggle playing up the slope and DK duly laid siege to the home line. Walsall defended resolutely until the 51st minute when another storming break from in-form skipper Pete Knight had the home cover back-pedalling furiously and from the quick ruck Simon Fletcher crossed for DK’s second try. Fletcher converted it himself for 22-14. Under intense pressure again, Walsall lost No 8 Rod Dickson, yellow carded on 53 minutes for handling in the ruck just to add to their woes. Seven forwards against DK’s formidable pack was just too much for the home side and DK skipper Pete Knight touched down DK’s 3rd try from a 5m scrum after Walsall had been shoved back over their own line. Simon Fletcher converted bringing DK to within a point at 22-21.

It was now pretty much one way traffic and DK took the lead for the first time in the game on the hour. A flowing three-quarter move saw the ball reach Tui Asi Pito on the left flank, his exquisite step inside wrong footed the whole of the Walsall cover as he sprinted through to the posts for a spectacular try. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were looking comfortable at 22-28 up. DK should have scored again after 72 minutes but Layton Wilkinson dropped the ball over the home line. Walsall’s relief however was short lived, as from the resulting scrum they lost the ball on their own line, Gareth Davies quickly snapped it up to send in Simon Fletcher for his second try. Fletcher again converted for DK to lead 22-35 after 73 minutes.

Into stoppage time, Walsall, to their credit were still trying to run the ball from inside their 22 but ended up giving away a penalty which Simon Fletcher coolly slotted over for a final 22-38 scoreline and local bragging rights for a few months at least!

DK are at home to 4th placed Scunthorpe next week. KO 2.15pm.

Saturday 11th November

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 34 - LUTON 32

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Ben Rimene, 14 Ian Gowland, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Allan Mitchell, 11 Tui Asi Pito, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Kirk Munro, 1 Alex Francis, 2 Chris Condliffe, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Ben Connett, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford 7 Pete Knight (Capt), 8 Layton Wilkinson. Replacements: 16 Dan Chesham, Richard Port, 18 Warren Port.

There have been many exciting games at Heathbrook over the years and this one was from the top drawer for entertainment value. DK had lost their “dog” in a pretty dire first half showing but he returned with a vengeance in a thrill a minute, compelling second half performance from the totally dominant and rampaging DK pack. Two converted tries in stoppage finally toppled league leaders Luton after DK had clawed their way back from 5-27 down at half time in a pulsating second half. Luton have invested heavily in their side this season in a determined effort to achieve national league status but it is interesting to note that out of the 18 players representing DK’s First XV yesterday, no less than 10 were developed through the club’s thriving Mini-Junior section proving perhaps that a close knit side can often gain the edge in terms of spirit and determination, as happened yesterday.

Luton will have few complaints at the outcome even though they lost it at the death. Their forwards had been taught a harsh lesson and by the end were overrun by the DK eight and simply unable to compete. Ben Rimene returned to the DK side in place of the injured Andy McLellan at fullback and Ian Langford was at blindside flanker with Richard Port taking a turn on the bench. Though DK’s miraculous second half recovery was very much a team effort Pete Knight played a magnificent captain’s game. When DK were down to 13 men after two yellow cards in the first half Knighty was simply awesome, turning over several crucial opposition balls inside beleaguered DK’s 22. His heroic performance set the tone for DK’s wonderful second half display. Fly half Eddie Smith was another DK hero making almost as many tackles as his back row pals and scoring a peach of a try.

DK made a confident start but it was Luton that took a 0-3 lead on 10 minutes with a penalty from former Bedford Blues fly half Mark Gray. DK then suffered a couple of devastating blows as Allan Mitchell (handling in the ruck) and Ian Langford (offside) were yellow carded after 10 and 13 minutes respectively. 13 man DK defended valiantly with skipper Pete Knight taking responsibility and leading by example, but their lack of numbers saw Mark Gray run through the stretched home cover on 23 minutes for a try to make it 0-8. DK were restored to 15 players without further mishap but were desperately unlucky to concede a try after 29 minutes when the referee Lee Towers accidentally impeded Eddie Smith allowing Luton No8 Lawrence Alden to canter in for an easy try under the posts converted by Mark Gray making it 0-15. A scrum might have been a fairer option! This score seemed to unnerve DK and Luton, tails up scored another try 2 minutes later on 31 minutes when a slick passing move down the right touchline culminated in flanker Phil Lane touching down at the posts. Crucially Ian Gowland managed to charge down the conversion as Luton now led 0-20. Despite the scoreline, the DK forwards were beginning to get the upper hand and a penalty catch and drive after 36 minutes saw Shaun Griffiths driven over from the lineout to give the home side some respite. It didn’t last, a fine run by Ian Gowland in stoppage time saw him lay the ball back but without support, it was picked up by Luton winger Lee Anker who sprinted in for the try from 50m. Mark Gray converted and Luton must have been delighted with the 5-27 lead. They were in for a bit of a shock!

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 5 LUTON 27

Coach Mark Wilson’s half time words of encouragement had the desired effect on DK as the immediately laid siege to the Luton line. Five minutes of intense pressure on the visitor’s line finally saw Eddie Smith sidestep his man superbly to score under the posts. Ben Rimene converted to make it 12-27. DK kept up the heavy pressure and should have scored again on 53 minutes but Ben Rimene’s final pass found only touch instead of Ian Gowland.

The Luton pack were suddenly looking very ragged and on 57 minutes after another furious assault on their goal line DK sucked in the visitors cover then spread the ball wide and at pace for Ian Gowland to streak over for the try wide out to make it 17 -27. Though now well on top, a lack of concentration saw DK concede a try on the hour when the alert Lee Anker took advantage of poor defensive alignment to score his second try and seemingly make the game safe for Luton who were now 17-32 ahead. Ben Rimene kicked a penalty for DK on 69 minutes for 20-32 as DK set up their grand finale. Luton’s hooker was yellow carded on 77 minutes but Luton managed to keep the home side at bay until the 80th minute when their pack was unceremoniously driven back over their own line for Pete Knight to touch down. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were just a converted try away from victory at 27-32.

Surely it was just too late? In the 5th minute of stoppage time DK again pounded the visitors line and a glorious, flowing last gasp attack saw the ball spread to replacement centre Warren Port who gleefully rounded his man to plunge over and level the scores at 32-32. Simon Fletcher stepped up for the all important conversion. It was never in doubt, Simon banged it over and incredibly DK had won the game against all the odds. You couldn’t make it up!!

DK have no game next weekend and are away at Walsall on Saturday week. KO 2.15pm.

Saturday 4th November

LONGTON 7 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 A McLellan, 14 W Port, 13 S Fletcher, 12 A Mitchell, 11 T Asi Pito, 10 E Smith, 9 K Munro, 1 A Francis, 2 C Condliffe, 3 D Shakespeare, 4 N Shillingford, 5 S Griffiths, 6 P Knight (Capt), 7 R Port, 8 L Wilkinson, Replacements: 16 R Gauden, 17 I Langford 18 I Gowland Referee: Tom Davis (Bath)

DK arrived at the isolated Staffordshire Moorlands for their latest Midlands 1 league fixture. A pale winter’s afternoon, with the wind straight off the Urals and a pitch that seemed to slope in four directions at once, it was evident that this is a hard place to go to win a rugby game. These fixtures are not won by thoroughbreds. These tough fixtures are won by steely forwards, who battle for every hard yard and cling on to their advantage with every sinew and bone in their body. These elements call for rugby in it’s most brutal form: combat, with no quarter asked or given. This type of game is red in tooth and claw, where a player continually puts his body on the line to dominate the opposition and win the respect of his team mates. Precocious talents don’t bring home league points in these fixtures. Sheer bloody mindedness and a refusal to lay down win these games. These tight games are won or lost on one mistake, one missed kick or tackle. And so it proved today.

Former Colts prop Al Francis was called up shortly before the game. It proved to be a steep learning curve for him, as his opposite number had been around for longer than anyone can remember. Al is made from stern stuff and stood his ground well. Typically, in a tight game sides try to unsettle the fullback with a bombardment of high balls. DK’s, Andy McLellan was tested throughout the game and was rocklike in his defence.

The opening score of the game came on 35 minutes. Following sustained Longton pressure, the DK back row drove the ball deep into the home side’s territory. Longton won the scrum, but DK hooker, Chris Condliffe, took the ball against the head and Number 8, Layton Wilkinson, with the ball under his arm and an expression of grim determinism on his face, challenged the home defence to stop him. They could not.

Half time: LONGTON 0 - DUDLEY KINGWINFORD 5

Early in the second half DK repeated the move. On this occasion the Longton Number 8 burrowed under Layton and prevented him from grounding the ball. This led to a period of incessant Longton pressure. 35 minutes of pressure in fact. Neil Shillingford was sin binned on 51 minutes, and the home pack started to assert themselves. The pressure paid off on 74 minutes when Gary McDermott, showing match winning skills, stepped inside the visitors’ defence to score under the posts. Paul Green added the conversion.

Sheer bloody mindedness wins these games. Longton were now going for the kill. They pounded the DK line, trying to run down the clock. On 79 minutes, the outstanding Pete Knight pulled off a try saving tackle and the ball was spilled forward. Kirk Munro grabbed the ball and intelligently chipped the home defence, rolling the ball into the corner. Kirk chased his own kick fully 80 metres and tackled the home winger. Simon Fletcher was in support, and the ball popped up into his grateful arms about 2 metres from the home line. Longton again pounded the DK line, but the conviction wasn’t really there. DK defended well and saw out the 6 minutes of injury time.

DK have become a side that can play for 80 minutes. “Dudley Dog” was their 16th man in their rise through the leagues. The Dog is growling again this season There were several man of the match performances. The Coaches award went to Chris Condliffe for his against the head strike which lead to the opening try, and his pin point line out work.

Next week DK face run away league leaders Luton at Heathbrook - Kick Off 2.15 p.m.

Saturday 28th October

RUGBY LIONS 46 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12

Many congratulations from all at DK to our most celebrated former player and easily the best scrum half in England by some way - Bristol’s Shaun Perry, upon his selection for the full England squad to face the mighty All Blacks next Sunday, November 5th. There will be a big screen and a big crowd at the club for this most momentous event. Get there early. KO 3.30pm.

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Warren Port, 13 Gareth Davies, 12 Alan Mitchell, 11 Tui Asi Pito, 10 Ben Rimene, 9 Kirk Munro, 1 Dan Chesham, 2 Chris Condliffe, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Neil Shillingford, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford (Captain), 7 Richard Port, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Reps: 16 Neil Chivers, 17 Al Francis, 18 Ben Connett, 19 Andy McEwen, 20 Pete Knight, 21 Ian Gowland, 22 Tom Weaver. Referee: Mr Chris Johnson

DK were well beaten by an impressive Lion’s side that is making a determined effort to claw its way back into the big time after almost a decade of decline by their own standards. They have succeeded in building up the wherewithal to run a large, talented squad and that, in essence, was the big difference between the sides. Both coaches had made several changes to their team for this game, but whereas Lions had arguably even better players to fill in, especially in the backs, DK, in turns of numbers, were down to the bare bones. They were very much short of pace in their back division and the home side ruthlessly exploited this weakness to the full with some brilliant and inventive running back play that would probably have been too much for far better teams than DK. They are a very attractive side to watch and with their backs they look odds on certainties to win Div 3 North this season.

The DK pack played extremely well throughout and matched the Lion’s forwards but every time the home side gained possession and spread it wide, DK were in trouble. The Lion’s backs were well led by half backs Sam Viggers and Peter Glackin and they kept the ball alive brilliantly with their superb handling skills, finishing off several complex moves with real pace. The DK lads were often left chasing shadows.

The only discordant note in the game was the rather supercilious and condescending gent on the Lion’s mike at half time who even caused some of his own supporters to cringe when exhorting home fans to watch their “second team” more often. “I can’t believe that w****r actually said that” was the immediate and apologetic reaction of one Lion’s fan on the touchline. Besides showing disrespect for the opposition, this jobsworths demeaning faux pas showed scant respect for the superb performances of the lads representing Rugby Lion’s senior side on the day and who would not have been too impressed at hearing his burblings. DK are well able to take a beating from a better side but that type of mindless prattle does little for the image of our game.

DK rested skipper Pete Knight and tight head prop John Fallon in the pack and Eddie Smith, Ian Gowland and Simon Fletcher in the backs. Whilst the DK backs three quarters were given a lesson in back play, the pack never took a backward step. The back row was magnificent with No 8 Layton Wilkinson shading Man of the Match from fellow back rowers Richard Port and Ian Langford. Veteran Neil Shillingford had another big game and young Al Francis did well in a tough debut from the bench at prop.

After a reasonable opening few minutes DK were caught napping on 8 minutes when Lion’s scrum half Sam Viggers took a quick tap penalty 20m out. He got to within 5m of the line before offloading to right wing Mike Rust who put Lions 5-0 up with the try. They were 12-0 up after 17 minutes when left wing Chris Murphy attacked from his own half then exchanged a pass with Dom Wareing before hurtling on to the line for another fine try converted by full back Glenn Bond. With DK in some disarray Lions added a third try a minute later when the pace of their centres set up Mike Rust for his second try and a 17-0 lead for the home side. Things then got even worse as Andy McLellan incurred a yellow card for tackling the man without the ball after 22 mins and then Shaun Griffiths was rather harshly carded on the half hour for a mistimed tackle. With 13 men against a rampant Lions DK conceded another try on 34 mins when Chris Murphy scored his second try after a flowing Lion’s move to make it 22-0. DK simply had no answer to the Lion’s pace in the backs and the home side duly scored again in stoppage time when Glenn Bond finished off another tremendous handling move with the score. He converted his own try for Lions to lead 29-0 at the interval.

Half time: RUGBY LIONS 29 - DUDLEY KINGWINFORD 0

Lions started the second half with a try straight from the kick off, another mesmerising move saw Chris Murphy in for his hat trick, Glenn Bond converted as Lions went 36-0 up on 41 minutes. DK then changed tactics to limit the damage and tried to keep the ball tight. This proved fruitful and after 5 minutes pressure Layton Wilkinson went over for DK’s first points from a rolling maul, Ben Rimene converted for 36-7 on 46 minutes. DK managed to keep the ball away from the Lion’s backs for a while but another spectacular move from out of defence on 63 minutes saw flanker Alex Nash touch down to increase the home lead to 41-12. Despite this DK were making a better fist of it in this half and good pressure saw hooker Chris Condliffe score from another rolling maul after 66 minutes making it 41-12. Lions however had the last word on 71 minutes when Tim Douglas brilliantly found Chris Murphy outside him, despite being tackled the centre got in his pass for Murphy to race through for his fourth try and a final score of 46-12 to Rugby Lions.

 DK are back in league action at Longton next week. KO 2.15pm. p.stinton@btinternet.com

 

Saturday 21st October

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 32  - SOUTH LEICESTER 13

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 Andy McLellan, 14 Warren Port, 13 Simon Fletcher, 12 Alan Mitchell, 11 Tui Asi Pito, 10 Eddie Smith, 9 Kirk Munro, 1 John Fallon, 2 Chris Condliffe, 3 Dan Shakespeare, 4 Neil Shillingford, 5 Shaun Griffiths, 6 Ian Langford, 7 Pete Knight, 8 Layton Wilkinson. Reps: 16 Dan Chesham, 17 Richard Port, 18 Ben Rimene. Referee: Mr Mark Rose (Midlands Group).

DK overcame South Leicester by six tries to one in front of another bumper crowd at Heathbrook, though the game could by no means be described as a one sided affair. After a terrific first half against the wind and with the sun in their eyes in which they side scored four tries without reply, DK looked odds on for a very big score, but they seemed strangely lethargic in the second half, despite the elements being in their favour and SL somehow managed to dominate possession, though they lacked penetration against a well drilled DK backline and could only manage one try from a penalty catch and drive. South Leicester, who won the Midlands 2 title in some comfort last season, were a bit of an unknown quantity to DK. They had two wins to their credit prior to today’s game, having beaten Scunthorpe and Bedford Ath – two very notable scalps. The four games they had lost were all by small margins, the largest of which being a 13-24 reverse against runaway league leaders Luton, so they were certainly not a side to be taken lightly.

DK made only one change from the side that won at Market Bosworth last week with Ian Langford returning to the back row in place of Andy McEwen. The DK pack had another good day especially in the first period when they ran the SL eight off their feet to set up the field positions from which the tries were scored. The back row in particular got the better of their opposition. Ian Langford’s strength in the tackle, Layton Wilkinson’s driving runs from No 8 and skipper Pete Knight’s peerless performance were key factors in the win. The front five made sure that SL were regularly nudged backwards in the set scrums with Shilly and Shaun Griffiths prominent in the loose. Considering DK are still short of two of their best backs due to injury, all of the lads that played were tremendous. The SL backs never had the remotest sniff of a try. Tui Asi Pito, DK Coaches Man of the Match had an inspired game scoring two superb tries and striking fear into the SL cover every time he touched the ball. Andy McLellan had a very confident game at full back and weighed in with a try. Eddie Smith hardly put a foot wrong all game at fly half as did Warren Port who looked very sharp on the left wing and made a super try for Ben Rimene at the end.

DK made a poor start conceding three kickable penalties in the first four minutes. Fortunately for them SL fly half Billy Blair was only able to convert one of them for the visitors to lead 0-3 after 4 minutes. The DK pack was quickly into its stride though and on 13 minutes after a couple of strong pick up and drives Alan Mitchell threaded an inch perfect grubber kick through a packed SL defence for the alert Andy McLellan to run through and pounce on the ball for DK’s first try. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were 7-3 to the good. SL hit back quickly when Billy Blair neatly dropped a goal following a ruck after 16 minutes to make it 7-6. DK quickly regained the initiative with some powerful forward thrusts and John Fallon was driven over for their second try following a penalty catch and drive after 20 minutes for DK to lead 12-6. There were further opportunities to increase the lead and the home side duly obliged with two tremendous tries in the last five minutes before half time. After 35 minutes with DK attacking, good yardage from Pete Knight and Ian Langford was carried on powerfully by the irrepressible Tui Asi Pito who, though tackled, managed to get his pass away to Simon Fletcher who sprinted in for DK’s third try making it 17-6. With SL now in some disarray, DK went further ahead with a spectacular try after 38 minutes. With the forwards scenting blood they drove powerfully up to halfway and the ball was spun first right then left, Tui Asi Pito taking it at pace 40m out on the left wing, his speed and power saw him smash straight through a couple of would be tacklers for superb individual try, increasing DK’s lead to 22-6. Four unanswered tries before half time against the elements was no less than the home side deserved and had put DK firmly in the driving seat.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 22 SOUTH LEICESTER 6

South Leicester tried hard to turn the tide at the start of the half. A determined effort saw them deny DK possession and territory, but every single attack through their backs was quickly repulsed by DK’s aggressive and very sound defence. The visitors finally got the try their pressure had merited on the hour when forward replacement Lenny Fincham was driven over from a penalty catch and drive. Billy Blair converted and SL were seemingly in with a shout at 22-13. It was not to be. After 65 minutes Andy McLellan’s long clearance kick bounced just in play, the ubiquitous Tui Asi Pito chased hard for what seemed a lost cause as the ball rolled towards touch. He reached it a split second before the SL cover and hacked on along the touchline towards the visitor’s goal line. Somehow the ball stayed in play and Tui ended his 50m sprint by diving on the ball less than a foot in from the dead ball line for what was one of the most spectacular individual tries seen at Heathbrook in a long, long time.

At 27-13 down and less than 15 minutes left SL were out of it but DK still seemed content to play out time until another breathtaking try in stoppage time sealed the win in emphatic style. A slick bout of inter-passing from both forwards and backs from inside the DK 22 saw the ball finally spun out to Warren Port on the left touchline. The winger pinned back his ears and went for it, finally confronted 5m out his well timed inside pass gave replacement back Ben Rimene his first try for the club and a comprehensive 32-13 final scoreline for DK.

DK are away at Rugby Lions next week in the 1st round of the EDF Energy National Trophy.

Note earlier KO time 2.30pm.

p.stinton@btinternet.com

 

Saturday 14th October

MARKET BOSWORTH 6 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 10

Dudley Kingswinford: 15 A McLellan, 14 W Port, 13 S Fletcher, 12 A Mitchell, 11 T Asi Pito, 10 E Smith, 9 K Munro, 1 J Fallon, 2 C Condliffe, 3 D Shakespeare, 4 N Shillingford, 5 S Griffiths, 6 A McEwan, 7 P Knight, 8 L Wilkinson, 16 D Chesham, 17 Ben Rimene, 18 R Port

Referee: Mr Simon Lazenby (Northern Group)

DK visited Market Bosworth’s very pleasant facilities on a beautiful, crisp autumn afternoon. The conditions were perfect for a feast of running rugby. Unfortunately, things didn’t quite work out like that and the crowd had very little to entertain them until a very tense final few minutes. Market Bosworth ended DK’s unbeaten run last season, and the men from Heathbrook were keen to get their revenge.

DK made two changes from last week’s victory, with the two “Andy Macs” (McLellan and McEwan) coming into the side.

Market Bosworth set their stall out early, driving DK into touch on the 5m straight from the kick off. The danger was snuffed out when Shaun Griffiths leapt like a salmon to steal the opposition’s ball. Highly rated No 6, Andy McEwan, showed he’s made the step up from Colts rugby with some ferocious tackling. Tui Asi Pito made some hard yards, but could not quite break the second tackle. The honest endeavour of both sides cannot be faulted, but the game deteriorated into a forwards battle with both packs determined not to give an inch. Former Leicester No 10, Dan Yuell, had two kicks at goal in the first half and converted both of them.

Half Time: Market Bosworth 6 DK 0

Market Bosworth had the benefit of a slope in the second half and their pack was determined to make full use of it. DK were under severe pressure for long periods of time. With the home side threatening the DK line, the ball squeezed out to Warren Port, who galloped out of defence only to be tackled on the home 22 metre line. With the pressure temporarily lifted, Layton Wilkinson was able to make dents into the home defence. One of Layton’s efforts led to the home defence conceding a penalty on the 60 minute mark. Simon Fletcher confidently stroked the ball over. Market Bosworth 6 DK 3

With 20 minutes to go, Market Bosworth tightened up their game. The game consisted of forward drive after forward drive. DK were reduced to 14 men when Shaun Griffiths was sin binned for a technical offence after 68 minutes. Many of the travelling DK fans thought there would be no way back with a depleted pack. Fortunately, the DK players had other ideas. DK pride themselves on their ability to produce “dog” when they have to, and the never say die spirit came to the fore now. The home side battered away at DK but they could not make their superior numbers count. The frustration was obvious and it came to head when Dan Yeull was sin binned for a technical offence. This coincided with DK being restored to their full complement. Now DK had the superior numbers, and gaps started appearing in the Market Bosworth defence. With the game in injury time many thought it was too late for DK. Four minutes into injury time, Warren Port chased a speculative chip over the defence. The ball bounced kindly and the DK winger beat his man and chipped over the try line. As he dived for the try, he was pulled back. Mr Lazenby was right on the spot and awarded a penalty try. Simon Fletcher added the conversion. Market Bosworth 6 DK 10

The travelling DK supporters gave a collective sigh of relief and expected Mr Lazenby to end the game. Mr Lazenby had other ideas! For the next seven minutes (which seemed like seven hours to the DK fans!), Market Bosworth pounded the DK line. Driving maul followed driving maul. The defence was stretched both sides of the pitch. Unfortunately for the home crowd, DK held out to a man and stopped Market Bosworth stealing an injury time victory.

 DK are home to South Leicester next week.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 7th October

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19 - PETERBOROUGH 16

Dudley Kingswinford:  15.Ben Rimene, 14.Warren Port, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Alan Mitchell, 11.Tui Asi Pito, 10.Eddie Smith, 9.Kirk Munro, 1.Dan Chesham, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Dan Shakespeare, 4.Neil Shillingford, 5. Shaun Griffiths, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight (Capt), 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps:16.John Fallon, 17.Andy McEwen, 18.Andy McLellan.

A healthy crowd of some 5/600 people at Heathbrook saw DK inflict Borough’s first defeat of the season with a Ben Rimene penalty in stoppage time.  There was a great atmosphere throughout the game, the Borough committee members and supporters, on their first ever visit to Heathbrook, were excellent guests. They were most magnanimous in defeat and the banter in the crowd was first class!  Nice to see DK’s most famous old boy and England scrum half elect, Shaun Perry - now plying his trade with Bristol in the Premiership - drop in at the club to chat with home and opposition players alike.  Another DK old boy John Richards also turned up.  John, now living in L.A. was a prolific try scoring winger for the club in Midlands 2 about 8 years ago.

In a thrilling game the home side had recovered from 0-11 and then 7-16 down, playing some of their best rugby of the season, to gradually gain the ascendancy.  Shortly after half time Ben Rimene levelled the scores at 16-16 and with their forwards on fire, DK looked to be heading for a convincing victory.  This view was reinforced when Borough second row Barry Hodges was sent off for stamping on 55 minutes.  However, perversely the red card ended up affecting DK more than Borough, as the offender was also their front row replacement and when prop Tony Morley went off injured shortly afterwards it meant uncontested scrums, effectively negating DK’s extra man in the set piece.  This farcical situation could have cost DK the game as their momentum was badly affected and Borough were always in with a chance with their fly half Loius Kleynhans who looked capable of kicking penalties from almost anywhere on the field.  As it was DK enjoyed a close but fully deserved win, just reward for another storming performance from the pack, some tremendous attacking rugby and rock solid defence.

With DK’s most influential backs Gareth Davies and Ian Gowland still sidelined with injury, scrum half Alan Mitchell was drafted in as an emergency centre and had a terrific game under the circumstances.  Tui Asi Pito continued on the left wing in place of Gowland.  There were no changes from last week in the pack.  The DK pack was magnificent on the day.  Borough got no change at all from the home front row, a strong game from Dan Shakespeare, great ball carrying from John Fallon and Chris Condliffe improves with every game. Neil Shillingford continued his good form in the second row and didn’t get a card so there is a “rollover” in the “Shilly Card Sweep” this week!  Fellow lock Shaun Griffiths had probably his best game of the season to date.  The back row disrupted a lot of Borough’s ball and the visitors found Layton Wilkinson’s charges hard to handle Ian Langford and skipper Pete Knight were in great form with Pete Knight adjudged DK’s Man of the Match for an inspiring captain’s performance.  In the backs Alan Mitchell and Warren Port had very good games and Ben Rimene was successful with 5 kicks from 6 attempts.

DK quickly discovered that Borough had an extraordinary goal kicker in fly half Loius Kleynhans who kicked the visitors 0-6 ahead with two monster penalties, both from near halfway after 4 minutes and then 10 minutes.  But the home side suffered a cruel blow after 13 minutes when a cross field kick was caught by right winger Augustin Mberi, the fact that he was at least 5 metres offside unfortunately escaped Mr Leavesley’s attention, as did the winger also dropping the ball over the line! 

0-11 down after only 13 minutes, DK needed to dig deep.  What followed was probably the best passage of rugby the home side have played for some time and had Borough back-pedalling furiously.  After 21 minutes a sublime move saw the ball swung left and right through many pairs of hands as DK rapidly moved up to the borough 22.  The forwards set up a swift running rather than rolling maul from which skipper Pete Knight emerged 10m out to power in near the posts.  Ben Rimene converted this superb try to make it 7-11.  From the kick off DK then shot themselves in the foot.  A poor clearance gave Borough the opportunity to run the ball back at their hosts with interest.  Slick inter-passing between backs and forwards culminated in full back Ben Chan steaming through the middle for a very good try.  Kleynhans kicked the conversion to restore Borough’s advantage at 7-16 after 22 minutes.  Despite this sucker punch DK were now beginning to dictate the pace and a Ben Rimene penalty on 39 minutes brought DK back to within a score at 10-16.

                             Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  10   PETERBOROUGH  16

DK continued to up the ante and their forwards were now exerting a lot of pressure and gaining more and more control of the game in general.  The pressure led to Borough having to give away penalties and Ben Rimene(2) was on target after 44 minutes and then 50 minutes to level the scores at 16-16.  Second row Barry Hodges red card on 55 mins for stamping seemed to seal Borough’s fate but for the already described fiasco that followed, though it has to be said that Borough were in no way to blame for this sad state of affairs it was nevertheless very frustrating for the home side who predictably lost some momentum and yet again gave too many penalties away in their desperation to seal the win, enabling Borough to keep DK at bay for most of the last quarter. 

Finally Borough’s 7 man pack that had been heroic in defence looked to be tiring a little and the fateful penalty was given away in the second minute of stoppage time.  Up stepped full back Ben Rimene to coolly slot home the winning points to cap a fine 14 point haul for him with the boot and an excellent team performance from DK.

DK are away at Market Bosworth next week.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 30th September

LUCTONIANS 8 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12

Dudley Kingswinford:  15.Ben Rimene, 14.Warren Port, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11.Tui Asi Pito, 10.Eddie Smith, 9.Kirk Munro, 1.Dan Chesham, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Dan Shakespeare, 4.Neil Shillingford, 5. Shaun Griffiths, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight (Capt), 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps:16.John Fallon, 17.Andy McEwen, 18.Andy McLellan.

Luc’s president Mike Ware was spot on with his “Presidential Perusings” in the match programme.  He was quite correct in his assumption that DK were somewhat “pig sick” at the outcome of the North Mids. Cup Final after dominating it for long periods and yes, the “revenge” win after a pulsating game at Mortimer Park was perhaps made all the sweeter because of it!  DK won the game primarily because their forwards were generally the stronger in both set and loose play and showed some real “dog” when the going got tough, though they struggled badly at times in the lineouts which prevented them from capitalising on their strong catch and drive ability inside the Luc’s 22 on at least three occasions, to ensure that the home side were in contention right up to the final whistle.

Neither side have made the start to the season they would have wished for.  DK having recorded only one win and Luc’s still to get off the mark.  The tension was evident throughout the game, with both sides putting in a huge effort to win the points on offer, a plethora of unforced errors and a high penalty count were par for the course, though, as a spectacle it was a more than reasonable game with both sides attempting to get the ball wide at every opportunity.  It was a tough match for 21 year old referee Adam Friend but he coped superbly well being both firm and fair and in full control throughout.

With DK’s star winger Ian Gowland sidelined with a shoulder injury, Warren Port came in on the right wing.  Old warhorse Neil Shillingford was drafted in to the second row and had a great game despite collecting his now customary yellow card early in the second half (Bratty won the sweep – 55 mins!!!).   His inclusion meant that Ian Langford could return to his most effective position on the blindside flank for the first time this season and was a major factor in the win.  DK’s front and back rows were excellent on the day but it was Neil Shillingford and Layton Wilkinson’s strength in the loose that kept DK on the front foot and they were DK’s Men of the Match.  Working in tandem they constantly created havoc, a couple of Shilly’s midfield hits were awesome in their intensity and took their toll and perhaps more than a little ambition out of the Luc’s pack.  Eddie Smith and Gareth Davies were the pick of the backs, Gareth especially looking close to his best form with some great breaks and a solid defence.

DK have a bad habit of giving away early points and they did just that in the first minute of the game.  Fly hacking the ball in open play with the opposition in close proximity is rarely a good option and Gareth Davies’s effort rebounded predictably into the path of Luc’s No 8 Paul Hulland just on half way.  The big man did extremely well to hustle Neil Shillingford out of the way (no mean feat!) and hack on to the line for a fine individual try and a 5-0 lead for the home side.  DK quickly got their act together and some enterprising forward play saw them win a lineout on the home 22, a quickly formed loose scrum drove Luc’s back over their own line for skipper Pete Knight to level the scores at 5-5 after 6 minutes.

Luc’s regained the lead on 9 minutes with a penalty from fly half Chris James to make it 8-5 but DK were already looking sharp in the loose and were giving as good as they got.  After 17 minutes good driving play took DK back into the home 22 and from a lineout they set up another catch and drive.  Right winger Tui Asi Pito found himself in the middle of the maul and it was he who broke away to score under the posts from 10m out.  Ben Rimene converted the try for DK to lead 8-12.  Though both sides came close this was surprisingly the final score of the game.  DK had another catch and drive opportunity after 24 minutes but a knock on denied them the score.  The game continued to be fairly even up to half time, DK had got themselves into good attacking positions several times but indiscipline saw them regularly penalised.

                              Half Time:   LUCTONIANS  8   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  12

DK had an early fright when Ben Rimene attempted an ill advised chip over a couple of Luc’s players in his own 22 without support and promptly lost the ball, however the DK defence was up to the job and quickly snuffed out the danger.  A great move on 45 minutes almost brought a third try for DK.  Gareth Davies won a turnover on the DK 22 then a tremendous jinking break from Kirk Munro took play into the Luc’s half, a couple of slick passes saw DK almost clear but the final pass went astray.  DK then had Neil Shillingford yellow carded on 55 mins for a professional foul.  DK had to dig deep during this period as the home side now desperate for a score, piled on the pressure.  14 man DK were superb in defence and though Luc’s came agonisingly close on a couple of occasions, the thin blue line held firm.  James missed a 57^th minute penalty for Luc’s.

Into the last quarter both sides had chances to win it and the 9 minutes of stoppage time seemed an eternity to DK who again put themselves under pressure in the final moments by not keeping their discipline and conceding penalties.  Fortunately, as it had all afternoon, the defence stood firm and DK ran out worthy winners.

DK are at home to Peterborough next week.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 23rd September

BROAD STREET 19 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Ben Rimene, 14.Tui Asi Pito, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12. Gareth Davies, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Eddie Smith, 9.Alan Kirk Munro, 1.Dan Chesham, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Dan Shakespeare, 4.Ian Langford, 5.Shaun Griffiths, 6.Layton Wilkinson, 7.Andy McEwen, 8.Pete Knight (Capt). Reps:16.John Fallon, 17.Alan Mitchell, 18.Andy McLellan.

After only three games DK are looking at the wrong end of the table with only two points taken from a possible six. The only conclusion to draw from yesterday’s abject performance is that this could be a long hard season with survival possibly superseding promotion as the prime target. Broadstreet’s Ivor Preece Field is a magnificent facility, the big, wide pitch was in superb condition and the sun was shining, but the fare dished up by two rather dysfunctional sides to the paying public on the day would have disappointed Mids. Division 3 followers. In short the game was a particularly dire affair.

Despite the paucity of the first half’s play comprising of continual basic and mostly unforced errors from both sides, the game was DK’s for the taking at half time. They were 6-14 up, with the home side struggling to mount any real attacks of note, besides which their fly half Dan Richards had missed three kicks at goal. DK blew their chances with a desperately poor second half, unwilling or unable to get the ball wide to the wings, even though there was acres of space on the large pitch they continually turned the ball back inside to the forwards and never once tested Street’s backline out wide. DK skipper Pete Knight’s 48th minute yellow card spurred on the home side who scored a good try in his absence and despite losing prop Neil Tatlow to a yellow card themselves, they were not to be denied and controlled the last 20 minutes to run out deserved winners. DK’s influential flanker Ian Langford again had to play in the second row due to Ben Connett’s continuing illness. Andy McEwen replaced the injured Richard Port and Layton Wilkinson came in for Scott Pugh, both in the back row. DK also shuffled their back line, Kirk Munro starting at scrumhalf whilst Eddie Smith, Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher were re-instated in their preferred positions at flyhalf and inside/outside centre respectively. Ben Rimene was at full back. John Fallon, Alan Mitchell and Andy McLellan were on the bench.

DK made a promising start when Ben Rimene kicked them 0-3 ahead after 3 minutes. Numerous handling errors from both sides kept the game in midfield until Street’s fly half Dan Richards levelled the score with a 17th minute penalty having already missed one in the 12th minute. DK were starting to make some inroads in the loose and a late tackle on Ian Gowland enabled them to set up a penalty catch and drive from 5m out. Street rebuffed the first wave but they were unable to stop hooker Chris Condliffe from plunging over from the second drive to put DK 3-8 up after 20 minutes. This was DK’s best period in the game and when Ben Rimene put them 3-11 up after 25 minutes they looked well set for victory. Dan Richards reduced the arrears to 6-11 on 28 minutes but then missed two further opportunities after 33 mins and 35 mins. Things looked even better for DK when Ben Rimene restored DK’s advantage to 6-14 with a well struck penalty in stoppage time.

 Half Time: BROADSTREET 6 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14

Simon Fletcher was just short with a 50m penalty after 45 minutes as DK strove to take control but as Street hit back hard to pressurise the DK line, skipper Pete Knight was yellow carded for coming in from the side. To lose arguably their best forward put an immediate strain on the visitors and Street were quick to exploit their numerical superiority when after 52 minutes they broke swiftly out of their own half to set up a slick three quarter move culminating in centre Ben Shepherd powering over in the corner with the DK rearguard shredded. Dan Richards kicked the conversion from touch and Street were suddenly within a point at 13-14 down. DK survived a tough six or seven minute spell but when Street’s tight head prop was sinbinned on the hour they really should have re-taken control of the game once more, instead what followed was almost farcical. Awarded a penalty after 62 minutes, a catch and drive was the obvious choice, against seven forwards the odds of another rolling maul try were pretty good to say the least. Instead the ball was tapped and run with Tui Asi Pito finally losing the ball forward, a crucial missed opportunity to seal the win had been missed. Street, redeemed by DK’s profligacy were never remotely troubled again. Their forwards communicated well and exhorted one another to greater efforts. They were aided to a great degree by DK giving away a rash of penalties. They took the lead 16-14 when Dan Richards converted one after 72 minutes and comfortably controlled the final minutes; Richards banging over another penalty after Tui Asi Pito was yellow carded for a blatant offside deep in stoppage time, to complete another trying afternoon for the DK faithful.

DK are away at Luctonians next Saturday. KO 3pm. p.stinton@btinternet.com

Saturday 16th September

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19 - BEDFORD ATHLETIC 36

Dudley Kingswinford:  15.Simon Fletcher, 14.Warren Port, 13.Gareth Davies, 12.Eddie Smith, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Ben Rimene, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Dan Chesham, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Dan Shakespeare, 4.Ian Langford, 5.Shaun Griffiths, 6.Scott Pugh, 7.Richard Port, 8.Pete Knight (Capt)Reps:16.Russ Gauden, 17.Layton Wilkinson, 18.Kirk Munro.

DK were soundly beaten by their old rivals Bedford Athletic in their first home league game of the season. Looking to build on their away win last week at Dunstablians and be among the early front runners in Midlands 1, the home side ended up a clear second best to a competent Ath side that will no doubt be there or thereabouts at the end of the season once again. For the second week running and with the notable exception of Ian Gowland who had a fine game, DK looked below par in the backs. Their halfbacks were largely ineffective and the centres were unable to prevent Ath getting quick ball out to their speedy wingers time after time or to break the Ath defensive line.

The first half was an unmitigated disaster for DK, they leaked four tries which effectively cost them the game. Ath were less effective in the second half and DK should really have done better than the couple of tries they managed in this period but poor support play – a recurring theme throughout the game - and sod’s law saw them gift the Ath another try at the death, aptly summing up a disastrous afternoon for the home side. With Ben Connett out though illness, flanker Ian Langford was drafted into the second row and Scott Pugh replaced Langford on the blindside flank. Warren Port replaced Tui Asi Pito (on holiday) on the right wing. No one worked harder for the DK cause than skipper Pete Knight and the No 8 was deservedly DK’s Man of the Match. The DK back row worked hard but the Ath back three were generally the more dynamic trio, punching holes at will through the DK defences in the first half. The one bright spot in a disappointing performance from the backs was the form of Ian Gowland who was excellent in defence and scored another great try in the second half.

There was little inkling of what was to come as DK hit the ground running. A tremendous break from Ian Gowland should have provided DK with the opening score but as he was brought down a metre out there was no support with the goal line begging. Keeping on the pressure DK went ahead on 3 minutes when Dan Shakespeare was driven over from an impressive lineout catch and drive. Ben Rimene added the conversion for DK to lead 7-0. This proved to be the last seen of DK as an attacking force until the last 20 minutes. Ath were level after 12 minutes when strong forward play provided quick ball down the threequarter line to left wing Simon Elphick whose pace left the DK cover floundering as he raced 50m to score at the posts. Full back Ronaldo Viljoen converted to make it 7-7. Play was fairly even for the next 20 minutes or so but Ath always looked the more threatening side in possession. Viljoen had missed a 15th minute penalty opportunity but was on target after 32 minutes for Ath to lead 7-10. The visitors forged further ahead after 35 minutes when DK who had seemingly won a ruck ball somehow managed to accidentally kick it back to the Ath side. It was quickly moved down the line to Ronaldo Viljoen entering the line at pace. With the DK cover AWOL the South African full back cantered in to make it 7-15. Two minutes later it was 7-22 as the Ath forwards once more created quick ruck ball in midfield to be rapidly spread wide to Simon Elphick who was again far too swift for the home cover as he cruised in for his second try, Viljoen again converting. DK had not really been in the game and Ath were certainly not slow to capitalise.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7 BEDFORD ATHLETIC 22

Ath continued to dominate play at the start of the second half and duly scored again after 47 minutes. Heavy pressure on the home line finally culminating in swift ball out to right wing Matt Aldwinkle who scored in the corner, again virtually unopposed. Viljoen added a conversion from touch and DK were suddenly looking at an embarrassing home hammering at 7-29 down. Alan Mitchell’s yellow card did little to improve things for DK, though strangely, Ath seemed to lose their edge during in this period. DK survived Mitchell’s absence and belatedly began to mount some pressure of their own. They came close on a couple of occasions before a hurried defensive kick rebounded over the Ath goal line for Gareth Davies to pick up and dive over to make the score 12-29. The score had a galvanising effect on DK and Ian Gowland gave the home side a glimmer of hope by scoring a superb try on 74 minutes. Alan Mitchell had broken blind from a scrum just outside the DK 22 and fed Gowland near halfway. The winger accelerated along his touchline then chipped over the cover before winning the race for the touchdown by a good margin. Ben Rimene’s conversion made it 19-29 but any chance of a late DK comeback was shattered when DK gifted Ath a fifth try with five minutes left. DK were pressing desperately for another score when Gareth Davies flung out a long wide pass to the left touchline, unfortunately he found only Ath right winger Matt Aldwinkle lurking there unmarked and he raced in unopposed to seal a comprehensive win for the Ath.

DK are away at Broadstreet RFC (Coventry) next Saturday. KO 3pm.

p.stinton@btinternet.com

Saturday 9th September

DUNSTABLIANS 22 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 26

 

DK ground out the result to get their season off to a winning start, but missed first up tackles and then an awful, wild pass from Ian Gowland presented Dees with two converted first half tries that meant DK led by only a narrow 14-19 margin at half time, though their forwards had been well on top in both set and loose play. Gowland atoned for his uncharacteristic howler with two sparkling tries, the second of which was a stunning piece of running from the winger that ultimately won the game for DK. Shortly after half time DK lost their excellent openside flanker Richard Port with an elbow injury and then Prop Dan Shakespeare, who had also been having a fine match, to an eye injury. At the time Dees were 14-26 down but belatedly began to press, a penalty followed by an unconverted try gave them hope. With a little more ball Dee’s superb back line began to pose much more of a threat, but DK managed to survive their late onslaught and take the points. DK lost flanker Ian Langford and prop John Fallon from their starting line-up, both were overnight flu victims. Andy McEwen and Russ Gauden replaced them.

 

The DK pack had a terrific first half in which the Dee’s eight were always on the back foot. The front row of Dan Shakespeare, Chris Condliffe and Dan Chesham in particular were on top of their game. Young Andy McEwen had some big boots to fill replacing Ian Langford on the blindside flank but he responded magnificently with an eye catching performance. In the backs Eddie Smith tackled himself, literally, to a standstill, having to be helped off late in the second half and considering he was playing an unfamiliar role at inside centre, fully deserved to be DK’s Man of the Match.

 

Dee’s took the lead on 2 minutes with a spectacular try from their loose head prop and occasional centre James Ellershaw. James is twenty plus stones and burst through the DK pack at a remarkable pace from near halfway, chipped the DK cover, collected the ball and dived over near the posts!! No one laid a hand on him and though it was a fantastic bit of play from the front rower, DK will be very disappointed at their poor defensive effort. Fly half Jon White added the extras for Dees to lead 7-0. Stung into action DK attacked immediately. Fly Half Ben Rimene was wide with a 7th minute penalty but the pressure had to tell. On 17 minutes DK had a scrum 5m out from Dee’s line, scrum half Alan Mitchell popped up a pass for Tui Asi Pito powering in from the blindside wing to the openside and he tore through the Dee’s rearguard to score a fine try. Ben Rimene converted for DK to draw level at 7-7.

 

Just as it seemed that DK were about to take control of the game they gifted Dees seven points. An innocuous kick ahead from Dees just needed to be tapped into touch but instead was picked up by Ian Gowland on DK’s left wing. Now under a little pressure, instead of running it into touch, he elected to throw it wildly over his right shoulder straight into the path of Dee’s scrum half Gerry Goss who gleefully accepted the gift to score at the posts, White again converted for the home side to lead 14-7 on 21 minutes. Suitably embarrassed DK now tore into the opposition and though Ben Rimene was narrowly wide with a 29th minute penalty, DK were level on the half hour. Camped in the Dee’s 22, DK’s pack took a ball against the head and it was moved swiftly left. Gareth Davies held the ball up superbly well to feed a very relieved Ian Gowland who finished the move in style with a good try. Ben Rimene again converted to level the scores at 14-14. DK turned up the heat and should have scored late on in the half but some unnecessary foul play ended in a penalty for Dees. DK were not to be denied however and deep into stoppage time after Dan Shakespeare turned over Dee’s ball and set up an attacking scrum, they shoved Dees back over their own line for scrum half Alan Michell to pick up and dive over for a try to give the visitors the lead for the first time at 14-19.

 

Half Time: DUNSTABLIANS 14 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 19

 

DK immediately resumed the offensive and scored the try of the game on 47 minutes. From a lineout in the Dee’s 22 the ball was moved quickly right. Great hands from Ben Rimene and Gareth Davies saw Ian Gowland take the ball on an angle and at great pace to tear through four or five despairing tackles to score a sublime try at the posts. Ben Rimene converted and DK were in full control at 14-26 up. Unfortunately, the injuries to Dan Shakespeare and Richard Port began to hamper DK’s forward effort and the Dee’s forwards began to impose themselves more. Jon White’s 56th minute penalty reduced the arrears to 17-26 as Dee’s desperately strove to save the game. The very impressive Dee’s back line was getting a lot more ball now and after several threatening attacks they scored a very good try on 73 minutes. After several attacking rucks in the DK half Dee’s excellent fullback Armstrong cut through the DK cover at pace to feed left winger Kevin Boland who streaked in for the an unconverted try. At 22-26 DK were up against it but defended stoutly for over a quarter of an hour; there being 10 minutes stoppage time. DK will take the win but need to be less profligate and much more ruthless if they are to achieve promotion this term.

 

DK are at home to old rivals Bedford Athletic next Saturday. KO 3pm.

Friday 1st September

WESTON SUPER MARE 15 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 14

DK completed their pre-season preparations with a training weekend at Bristol University. On Friday evening (7.30 pm) they played at Weston Super Mare (South West 1) and after the game, enjoyed excellent hospitality at the very sociable Weston club but they were denied a win at the death in this their third and final pre-season friendly before the league program begins next Saturday at Dunstablians. I

t was a hard fought game giving the evenly matched sides’ valuable preparation time for the long hard season ahead. Deservedly leading 12-14 just a couple of minutes from time after coming from behind 7-0 and then 12-7, DK conceded a penalty to go behind 15-14 and then simply ran out of time thus giving Weston the satisfaction of the win, made all the sweeter no doubt, after last season’s 27-15 defeat in the Quarter Final of the Intermediate Cup at the hands of DK at Heathbrook in February, a loss which also ended the West Country club’s impressive unbeaten league and cup record.

Coach Mark Wilson was overall very happy with the workout and the performances of both the forwards and backs, singling out openside flanker Richard Port for his tremendous contribution throughout. New Kiwi half back signings Kirk Munro and Ben Rimene continued to impress, both having excellent games. Hooker Chris Condliffe also had a very good game though with his Mum and Dad watching he would wouldn’t he!!

The game was played in 2 x 20mins and 1 x 40mins segments giving all of DK’s squad of twenty two a run out. The first twenty minutes ended in a 0-0 stalemate as both sides probed for openings though DK should perhaps have put some points on the board as their pack put the home side under some intense pressure. After DK had lost influential centre Gareth Davies to an ankle injury after only a couple of minutes, Weston went 7-0 ahead with a goal in the 22nd minute when centre Sean Bennett latched on to an astute chip through the DK cover, player-coach Mark Armstrong adding the conversion. Despite plenty of pressure and several promising moves DK were unable to breach the Weston line before half time.

Half Time: WESTON SUPER MARE 7 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

It did not take DK long to level the scores. On 45 minutes DK mounted a strong catch and drive from a line out inside the Weston 22 and tight head prop John Fallon was driven over with Ben Rimene kicking a fine conversion from wide out to make it 7-7. DK then tried hard to add to their score but a scrappy lineout on 58 minutes saw them lose the ball in midfield. It was quickly scooped up by alert wing Matt McQuaid who ran well for an unconverted try to make it 12-7 in Weston’s favour. DK stormed back strongly and took the lead with another catch and drive try from a lineout after 75 minutes. This time hooker Chris Condliffe was driven over, much to the delight of Mr & Mrs Condliffe watching from the touchline. Ben Rimene was again successful with the difficult conversion and DK were seemingly home and dry at 12-14 up with five minutes left. However Weston’s replacement fly half James Reid had other ideas and won the game for the home side with a well struck penalty with less than two minutes remaining.

DK begin their 2006-7 league season away at Dunstablians on Saturday (9th September) KO 3pm

Saturday 26th August

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15 - MACCLESFIELD 25

Though DK lost out to National 3 North Macclesfield by four tries to two in this entertaining pre-season friendly, they could take heart in a battling performance against a strong side that only last week won away 17-22 against Div 2 side Halifax. Had they not been caught cold by an early Macc try in the third minute, it might well have been much closer with DK steadily improving as the game wore on. Apart from the first scrum the home pack were solid in the set scrums throughout, though Macclesfield deserved the win as their heavy pack was able to drive DK back in the loose and two of their tries were from impressive rolling mauls. DK had several catch and drive opportunities in good forward positions themselves, but their momentum was halted every time by the Macclesfield forwards excellent defence.

Considering DK were missing at least ten of their First XV squad due to injuries and holidays, including Wayne Millard, Matt Ferguson, Ollie Shakespeare, Ben Connett and John Fallon in the forwards and Steve Smart, Warren Port, Ian Gowland, Pete Stinton and Andy McLellan in the backs, there was much to be encouraged about. Layton Wilkinson, along with skipper Pete Knight in the pack and Gareth Davies in the backs were probably DK’s best players on the day though There were other very promising performances, notably Dan Chesham (Gloucester Academy) and DK’s two new Kiwi signings Kirk Munro at scrum half and Ben Rimene at fly half when they were introduced for the second half. Kirk set up a try and made a couple of superb breaks whilst Ben’s distribution looked spot-on. The multi talented Simon Fletcher took over yet another new role at full back and looked assured throughout. Last but not least, several of the DK youngsters including Jamie Harding, Chris Gledhill, Andy McEwan, Ryan Wicketts, Ben Mann, and Al Francis all acquitted themselves well.

It looked a little ominous for DK when the big Macclesfield pack shoved them backwards at the first scrum; they stole the ball and set up a strong rolling maul for their fly half Ross Winney to be driven over after only 3 mins. The same player missed the conversion but landed a 10th minute penalty to give Macc a 0-8 lead. DK gradually sorted their scrum out and began to look more settled as a result. Simon Fletcher reduced the arrears with a 14th minute penalty to make it 3-8. A heavy and persistent downpour had made handling difficult for both sides but the conditions seemed to suit Macc’s big forwards more and they scored a second try on the half hour when after some heavy pressure fly half Ross Winney chipped through the overstretched DK rearguard for centre Phil Mason to race through and score. Winney added the conversion making it 3-15 in favour of the visitors. DK then had their best spell of the game so far. They kept Macc pinned in their own half right up until half time but were unable to penetrate their visitor’s rock solid defence.

Half Time: DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 3 MACCLESFIELD 15

DK continued to press hard and after going close on a couple of occasions they scored their first try on 52 minutes when Kiwi scrum half Kirk Munro’s neat break and inside pass to skipper Pete Knight saw him send in Ian Langford at the posts. Simon Fletcher converted to make the score 10-15. Unfortunately an unforced error from the kick off saw DK knock on, Macc set up a penetrative attack directly from the scrum, probing left then right before winger Jimmy Watts dived over in the corner on 55 minutes to give Macclesfield a ten point cushion at 10-20. DK strove hard to regain their momentum but poor handling let them down. Kirk Munro made a superb break on 70 minutes that had the visitors in disarray but the ball was lost at the maul. Macclesfield settled the game with a fourth try after 75 minutes when from a penalty catch and drive inside the DK 22 they set up a rolling maul from which back row Neil Keane was driven over giving the visitors a 10-25 lead with five minutes left. DK stormed back to lay siege to the Macclesfield line and were rewarded with a deserved try in the last minute when the impressive Gareth Davies dummied over after good work from the DK pack to make the final score a respectable 15-25.

DK play their final pre-season game at Weston Super Mare RFC next Friday evening KO 7.30pm.

Saturday 19th August

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 31 - NEW BRIGHTON 21

As a warm up to the 2006/7 campaign, Dudley Kingswinford hosted a squad from New Brighton FC. New Brighton, one of the oldest rugby clubs in the world, have met DK several times at National Three level. Both clubs fielded a mixture of squad members, trialists, and former Colts. There were also a few “old warhorses” on display! The game was split into four twenty minute periods, and was sympathetically refereed by Ross Campbell. We look forward to Mr Campbell officiating us again in the future. New Brighton were quickest out of the blocks. Steve Dean, the visitors’ excellent Fly Half, chipped the DK defence for winger Dan Searl to score. Dean added the conversion. DK didn’t have time to catch their breath before they were further behind. Dean again chipped the ball, which deceived the DK defence. The ball bounced kindly for Gareth Simpson, and he gratefully seized the opportunity to stroll under the posts. Dean again adding the conversion. DK were stung into action and tore into the visitors defence. The home side went through the phases, creating a gap for Tui Asi Pito to score under the posts. Simon Fletcher added the conversion.

First period, DK 7 New Brighton 14

The second period was marred by an injury to New Brighton winger, Dan Searl. The enforced inactivity affected both sets of players, and the standard of play wasn’t as good as the coaches would have liked. Gareth Davies, who had moved to Fly Half, almost broke the deadlock, but was held over the line. From the resulting scrum, Pete Knight fed Allan Mitchell, who scored wide to the right of the posts. Simon Fletcher added the conversion.

Second period, DK 14 New Brighton 14

DK introduced Centre, Ben Mann at the start of the third period. The classy ex Colt showed his potential immediately by carving the New Brighton defence apart with his intelligent running. Superb support work from Tom Weaver saw him on hand to accept the scoring pass.

Third period, DK 19 New Brighton 14

In the fourth period, the visitors bulked up their pack and set up a number of driving mauls. Following a penalty move, the pack drove over the elegantly coiffured Katilimoni Tuipulotu. Dean again added the conversion. With five minutes to go, DK were in danger of an unwanted home defeat. DK took play to the New Brighton five metre line, only to see the scoring pass go to ground. At the resulting scrum, Allan Mitchell cleverly robbed the visiting scrum half of the ball. Rob Chivers was on hand for the pass, and scored on his debut for the senior side. New Brighton then pounded the DK line. In the last play of the game, the ball squeezed out to young Number 10, Tom Bissell. With the crowd baying at him to kick the ball into touch, Tom showed some very enterprising flair. He chipped over the onrushing defence to feed Simon Fletcher wide on the left. Simon outpaced the New Brighton three quarters, and set up Ben Mann for his second try of the game.

Final Score DK 31 New Brighton 21

2005 - 2006

Nuneaton (h)    Whitchurch (h)    Dunstablians (h)     Bedford Athletic (a)    Bromsgrove (h)    Kettering (a)     Lichfield (a) Cup Market Bosworth (h)   Rugby Lions (a)    Paviors (a) Cup    Burton (h)    Luton (a)    Caldy (a) cup    Walsall (h)    Scunthorpe (a) Luton (h)    Burton (a)    Luton (h) Cup    Rugby Lions (h)    Market Bosworth (a)    Weston (h) Cup    Kettering (h)    Luctonians (a)     Morley (h cup semi)    Bromsgrove (a)  Bedford Athletic (h)  Luctonians (h)  Dunstablians (a) University College Worcester (h) N Mids Cup  Scunthorpe (h) Walsall (a)  Camp Hill (a) Nth Mids Cup

Luctonians Nth Mids Cup Final

Saturday 1 April ~ North Mids Cup - Quarter Final

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 18 - UNIVERSITY COL WORCESTER 9

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Andy McLellan, 14.Rhys Crane, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Nigel Francis, 10.Tom Bissell, 9.Eddie Nicholls, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3.Matt Ferguson, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ben Connett, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.Russ Gauden, 17.Neil Shillingford, 18.Pete Stinton Jnr. 19.Ollie Shakespeare, 20.Robbie Jones, 21.Warren Port.

DK’s progress to a Semi-Final tie away at Camp Hill in the North Midlands Cup was a tenuous affair.  The Students do not play league rugby and in view of this the home side possibly took their young visitors a little too lightly, in any event they proved to be very tough opponents indeed and were very unfortunate to be on the wrong end of  a couple of crucial decisions during the game.  The 18-9 final score certainly flattered DK as the Students had looked as good a side if not better than their hosts for a good part of the game.  Their openside flanker Alistair McDonald was outstanding, probably the best player on the field.  DK will take the win but they have played far better and lost this season.

With backs Rhys Crane, Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher all returning from injury DK must have been very confident before the game.  Eddie Nicholls had another excellent game at scrum half, his tackling was exemplary and his long quick pass should have caused the opposition far more problems than it did, unfortunately by the time the ball got to the centres they were sometimes getting man and ball.  Besides Eddie Nicholls, Simon Fletcher had a very sound game at outside centre after several weeks sidelined with injury.  In the forwards the back row was again to be DK’s salvation.  The Students found No8 Layton Wilkinson’s power, driving forward from the base of the scrum, almost impossible to deal with, Pete Knight was perpetual motion on the openside flank whilst Coaches Man of the Match Ian Langford had a towering game on the blindside, pulling off a couple of magnificent try saving, and literally match saving tackles as DK struggled in the second half.  DK introduced new signing from Woodrush RFC, Russ Gauden at loose head prop in the second half.  Russ is a big lad and showed up very well on his debut.

DK were 0-3 down inside a minute, they knocked on the student’s kick off and from the resulting scrum the students launched a swift attack catching DK offside.  The Student’s fly half Robert Cook stroked over the penalty.  DK had a penalty opportunity when the students were offside on 4 minutes but Andy McLellan’s effort sailed just wide.  Though facing a stiff breeze, DK piled on the pressure for the next 15 minutes without looking particularly incisive against the Student’s tigerish defensive tackling, they should really have scored on 16 minutes though when they got into the Students 22 with a 3:1 overlap only for Gareth Davies to cut inside.  He was tackled and to add insult to injury, was penalised for holding on!  The Students having weathered the storm came back strongly taking the game to DK.  Robert Cook was wide with a 20^th minute penalty but made no mistake on 21 minutes making it 0-6 after DK had given away yet another penalty.

The Students were playing with great confidence now, getting right into DK’s faces and the home side then had the ignominy of not only losing a couple of balls against the head but also being shoved back almost 30m when the visitors put together a very effective rolling maul.  Just when things were beginning to look a little grim for the hosts they scored a try out of the blue.  Good loose forward play from DK had sucked in the student’s cover on the right hand side of the field and when the ball was spun left they were short on numbers allowing left wing Rhys Crane to touch down in the corner.  There was a hint of controversy as some visiting supporters felt that there had been a foot in touch, however the Students did not react and the officials were happy with the score leaving DK to turn around only 5-6 down and with the elements in their favour in the second half.

                Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  5  UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER  6

The Student’s made a mess of the DK kick off allowing the hosts to apply early pressure and a 41^st minute penalty from Andy McLellan saw DK take an 8-6 lead.  The visitors then had a more serious problem as their skipper and fly half Robert Cook was yellow carded for trying to slow the release of the ball at a ruck after 48 minutes.  DK took immediate advantage, they opted for a scrum from the ensuing penalty, Pete Knight broke forward and he and Gareth Davies set up a ruck from which Layton Wilkinson was unstoppable as he powered over from 10m for the try.  Andy McLellan converted for DK to lead 15-6. 

With the breeze at their backs it should have been plain sailing for DK from here but they never used the elements successfully and some of the kicking out of hand was woeful, albeit the blustery wind was always a problem.  In fact things got a lot worse after Simon Fletcher was yellow carded for not rolling away after the tackle.  The Students upped the ante and DK had to defend desperately to stay in front.  To their credit they defended very well despite many uncomfortable moments.  Ian Langford was a tower of strength, somehow making a couple of superb tackles when a Student’s try looked a certainty.

The pressure did finally tell after 73 minutes when Robert Cook slotted his third penalty for the Students bringing them within a converted try at 15-9.  Game on!!  Unfortunately for them, the Students lost their focus momentarily, conceding a penalty themselves on 75 minutes which Andy McLellan duly despatched for DK, restoring their 9 point and 2 scores lead.  Though they kept plugging away manfully one sensed that the Students knew the game was up and indeed it was, though they can be proud of their contribution to a very tense game in which DK came perilously close to being unceremoniously bundled out of the North Mids Cup in their first tie.  

DK are back in league action next week against Scunthorpe at Heathbrook.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 25 March ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUNSTABLIANS 29 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 15

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Tom Bissell, 14.Robbie Jones, 13.Warren Port, 12.Andy McLellan, 11. Nigel Francis, 10.Pete Stinton, 9.Eddie Nicholls, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3.John Fallon, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.Matt Ferguson, 17.Ben Connett, 18.Neil Shillingford.

Not for the first time this season DK’s discipline let them down.  They conceded a record four yellow cards in the second half though two of these were very questionable decisions by the hapless referee Chris Johnson, who missed or chose to ignore at least two similar offences from Dees during the game.  DK had enough problems to begin with.  Warren Port was the only survivor in the backs from last week’s win over Luctonians but playing out of position on the wing.  Halfbacks Alan Mitchell (banned) and Eddie Smith (back), centres Gareth Davies (shoulder and Tom Weaver (ankle) and Wings Ian Gowland (ankle) and Steve Smart (quad muscle) were all missing from the side besides other first team backs out with longer term injuries.  In an overall undistinguished team effort Layton Wilkinson was named Coaches Man of the Match for a typical rumbustious performance at No 8. Eddie Nicholls in only his second start for DK at scrum half played very well and with great confidence, with Alan Mitchell banned for the rest of the season young Eddie has a chance to make his mark.

Despite these selection problems DK led 5-8 at half time and though they had conceded a try just before half time due to poor tackling, they really did not have much to fear from the home side as long as they kept it tight.  The yellow cards however changed all that, forcing DK to play with 14 men for most of the second half and even against Dunstablians fighting to avoid relegation it was too much to ask.  Mr Johnson had been roundly and at times obscenely abused by a few of the home supporters in the first half and some of it was very OTT making a mockery of the home programme’s plea to respect the officials.  Perhaps the offenders will now be banned as threatened.  It could be argued that such tactics work as “Yellow Peril” Mr Johnson (apparently he has some form) turned turtle in the second half to belabour the DK lads, nothing better than a bit of intimidation!  Both sets of supporters agreed after the game that this was probably not Mr Johnson’s finest 80 minutes!!

DK took a 0-3 lead after 4 minutes when Dees were penalised for coming in from the side.  Andy McLellan kicked the penalty.  A ball lost against the head followed by a horrendous mistake by DK’s much changed back line almost cost a try on 7 minutes but Dees lost it on the line.  Andy McLellan missed a 15^th minute penalty for DK and then Dees No 8 L. White was yellow carded for preventing the release of the ball.  From the penalty catch and drive Ollie Shakespeare was driven over for an unconverted try to make it 0-8 to DK on 24 minutes.  DK with the breeze at their backs were on top but progress was difficult with Dees fighting for survival in the league.  Dees then scored just before half time.  Nothing looked on when the ball was spread wide to Greg Howe near halfway but the left winger ran straight and at pace though he really should have been stopped as he powered through a powder puff attempted tackle, he took his try well.

                         Half Time:   DUNSTABLIANS  5   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  8

The second half began disastrously for DK as second row Ollie Shakespeare was yellow carded for preventing release, in truth the Dees scrum half Hall conned Mr Johnson rather well.  Losing 18 stones plus from your second row means pressure in any language, however DK should have scored after 43 minutes when Dees lost the ball in midfield and Wayne Millard burst through with Dees cover split wide open.  Support was slow to appear and the chance was lost only for Dees to put a good move together, attacking through the middle up into the DK 22 and resulting in prop Jason Duckworth touching down after 45 minutes.  The fact that the last TWO passes were forward says everything about Mr Johnson’s unhappy afternoon.  Fly half Gerhart Swart kicked the conversion for Dees to lead 12-8.  DK fought back well but were devastated to lose their hard working skipper Pete Knight to a yellow card on 65 minutes for offside.  The ball was out and the ref seemingly unsighted.  Now without an openside flanker DK’s already flimsy cover was totally exposed a minute later when burly centre James Ellershaw ambled through for an easy try, Swart again converting as Dees pulled away to 19-8.

Three minutes later the stretched DK cover was again all at sea when scrum half Hall was allowed to run 30m to the posts unopposed.  Swart converted for 26-8.  Back up to 15 players DK piled on the pressure and were rewarded on 76 minutes when Layton Wilkinson powered over from a ruck and Andy McLellan converted to make it 26-15.

Mr Johnson somehow found 8 minutes of injury time.  Time enough for two more yellow cards for the visitors who were by this time as fed up with the official as Dees had been in the first half.  John Fallon (85) and Matt Ferguson (87) were the recipients.  Swart kicked a final penalty for Dees to give them a welcome win.  The number of yellow cards that DK have conceded this season is alarming and whilst a few of them are doubtless down to incompetent refereeing, the majority are not.  At least four of their eight losses this season could have been avoided had the side been more disciplined. 

DK are at home to Worcester University in the Quarter Final of the North Midlands Cup next Saturday.  KO. 3pm.

Saturday 18 March ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 23 LUCTONIANS 7

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Tom Weaver, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Warren Port, 10.Eddie Smith, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Matt Ferguson, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.John Fallon, 17.Scott Pugh, 18.Pete Stinton.

DK gained revenge for their narrow, injury time defeat at Mortimer Park last month with a three tries to one victory over old rivals Luctonians.  The fierce wind blowing down the ground throughout, dictated that this was to be a game of two halves and Lucs 0-7 interval lead with the elements, never looked quite enough.  So it proved as DK scored three second half tries plus two penalties and a conversion to run out worthy winners.  Games against Luctonians are always tough affairs but even when DK were reduced to 13 players near the end, having used up all of their replacements (due to a spate of injuries to backs Tom Weaver, Steve Smart and Gareth Davies plus an earlier tactical change and then having Alan Mitchell sinbinned), they never lost their tenacity and the visitors were unable to make their extra numbers count. 

Skipper and second row Ben Connett was absent due to work commitments and wing Ian Gowland is still out with injury but DK welcomed back Eddie Smith at fly half after being out for three months with a back injury and centre Gareth Davies who had been out for several weeks.  Ollie Shakespeare returned to the second row after missing last week’s game against Bedford Ath.  Shaun Griffiths replaced Ben Connett in the second row and had very good game throughout.  Pete Knight led the side well and is really beginning to look the part at openside flanker in Richard Port’s absence, he and No 8 Layton Wilkinson  who had another fine game, making several telling breaks and drives to keep Lucs on the back foot.   Eddie Smith claimed the Coaches Man of the Match award, his distribution was spot on and he lasted the pace remarkably well after being out of the side for so long.  Andy McLellan kicked a couple of important penalties and a conversion and his kicking out of hand was excellent too.  Most of the other backs including the bang in-form Steve Smart ended up being injured, though Pete Stinton Jnr came on when Tom Weaver was injured for his first senior home appearance for DK since April 1998 and showed the young guns how to make a break, his mazy, mesmerising second half run setting up Steve Smart for a superb second try for DK.

Though facing the stiff breeze in the first half DK made a lively enough opening, pinning Lucs back for the first ten minutes or so.  The wind and artic conditions caused problems for both sides and cold fingers saw a rash of early knock ons.  Luctonians gradually adjusted and began to use the elements well.  They scored their try after 22 minutes when a miscued chip near the half way line from DK’s Tom Weaver saw the ball returned with interest back over the head of full back Andy McLellan.  The Luctonians centres were up very quickly and Ricki Helagi was first to the loose ball to touch down over the line.  Fly half Jeremy Wheadon added the extras for Lucs to lead 0-7.  The Herefordshire side had other opportunities to increase their lead, Wheadon missing a 32^nd minute penalty and one particular rolling maul made almost 50m before DK somehow turned it over.  As it was the home side defended extremely well and must have been very happy to turn around at half time only 0-7 down.

                Half Time:  DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  0   LUCTONIANS  7

Now with the elements in their favour DK attacked immediately, Eddie Smith just failed to hold a sharp pass just 5m out but the DK pack then disrupted the resulting Lucs scrum and quick thinking by John Fallon secured the loose ball for Ian Langford to pick up and drive over for an unconverted try on 49 minutes to make it 5-7.  Andy McLellan’s 53^rd minute penalty then saw DK take an 8-7 lead. 

DK went further ahead after 55 minutes with tremendous try.  Pete Stinton Jnr picked up a loose ball on the right wing just inside the DK half, sprinting deftly infield he sidestepped and weaved past four defenders with the whole Lucs back line seemingly rooted to the spot, before drawing the cover to give Steve Smart space on the left wing.  Steve Smart doesn’t need a lot of space and his devastating 30m finish saw him touch down wide out for an excellent unconverted try to increase the DK lead to 13-7.  Unfortunately Steve was injured in scoring and had to leave the field.  DK had now used all their replacements and when Gareth Davies was injured on 65 minutes they were down to 14 men.  Despite this they increased their lead to 16-7 after 67 minutes with another Andy McLellan penalty.

DK are quite used to playing with a man (or even two) down this season and to their credit they still took the game to Luctonians, playing most of the remainder of the game inside the Lucs half and culminating with another try in the 80^th minute.  They set up a catch and drive from a penalty lineout and Layton Wilkinson drove over for DK’s 3^rd try.  Andy McLellan added a fine conversion to make it 23-7.  The drama was not yet over though.  Because of DK’s injuries there was 10 minutes stoppage time added and after 85 minutes DK were reduced to 13 men when Alan Mitchell was yellow carded.  DK had to defend hard for the last 5 minutes but they had the bit between their teeth and again Lucs were unable to capitalise on their extra numbers.

There was some excellent friendly banter in the DK clubhouse after the game, nice to know that Simon Green-Price and many of the other Lucs boys, as well as Kettering, Bedford Ath etc. enjoy my match reports so much (at least I think that’s what they said)!  Most did suggest that I might be a tad “over-supportive” though.  Are you listening Gordon, Ben and Wils?

DK are away at Dunstablians next Saturday.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 11 March ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 22 BEDFORD ATHLETIC 23

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Warren Port, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.John Fallon, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ben Connett, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.Matt Ferguson, 17.Scott Pugh, 18.Scott Pugh, 19.Tom Weaver.

For the second time in their last 3 league matches DK lost the game in injury time.  Devastated with injuries both before and during the game and having to contend with two very contentious yellow cards, this was a spirited performance from the whole of the DK side who were desperately unlucky to lose to a dropped goal in injury time after crucially failing to make touch from a penalty in the dying seconds.  Ath are deservedly strong favourites for the play offs but after a sluggish display against a severely depleted DK, they will surely struggle with this side if they do make it back into the National League. Their best player by a mile was veteran fly half and coach Ashley Tapper whom the DK faithful will remember causing us problems over ten years ago!  His astute kicking set up numerous good field positions for the Ath and he made their third try with another precision kick.

To add to DK’s already woeful injury list, second row Ollie Shakespeare was unable to play due to an Achilles heel problem and then during the game they lost both centre Rhys Crane and fly half Simon Fletcher before half time.  The makeshift back line performed miracles with Coaches Man of the Match scrum half  Alan Mitchell leading by example with his best game of the season, full of running and invention.  Steve Smart is in a rich vein of form at present and always looked dangerous.  Ian Gowland scored two cracking tries whilst Tom Weaver and Warren Port were nothing less than heroic in the centre.  Andy McLellan was solid at full back and later at fly half.  In the pack Layton Wilkinson, John Fallon and Chris Condliffe were outstanding in the loose as was Ben Connett in the lineout.  Flankers Ian Langford and Pete Knight worked with their normal tireless efficiency and overall, despite the loss and the injuries DK played in more like their old style, trying to move the ball wide at every opportunity and keeping the big Ath pack on the move, something they have not achieved too often this season.  When the side gets back to full strength, this style of play will undoubtedly bear fruit as they have arguably some of the best backs in the division.

The Ath looked ominously powerful at the outset and DK were immediately under pressure as fly half Ashley Tapper stroked over a 5^th minute penalty to put the visitors 0-3 ahead.  But then on 8 minutes DK rocked high flying Ath with a superb try.  Fed by Alan Mitchell inside the DK half and in some space, Steve Smart showed up the visitor’s lack of pace in the backs with a marvellous outside break, leaving his would be tackler grasping at thin air, haring down the touchline he chipped the full back beautifully and though illegally baulked as he went to pick up the ball and score, Warren Port was up in support to touch down for the try.  Simon Fletcher kicked the conversion from the touchline to put DK 7-3 up.  Rhys Crane had to leave the field at this stage to be replaced by Tom Weaver.

Ath redoubled their efforts but DK were up for this game and continued to look dangerous when in possession.  However the visitors snatched back the lead 7-8 with an unconverted try after 27 minutes when flanker Jamie Rudkin was driven over from a penalty catch and drive, DK were unable to get into position quickly enough and as a result the drive was poorly defended.  Undeterred DK regained the lead 10-8 on 33 minutes, Simon Fletcher kicking a penalty.  DK were then hit by two heavy blows in quick succession.  Firstly Simon Fletcher was injured and had to leave the field, Andy McLellan replaced him at fly half with Steve Smart going to full back and replacement flanker Scott Pugh to the right wing.  A minute later Ian Langford was yellow carded for what was deemed to be a high tackle.  It looked totally innocuous from the stand as the Bedford player seemed to duck into the tackle.  The ref Mark Liddell who was being watched by a veritable army of assessors (hope they all paid their entrance money)and who was being videoed to boot, possibly over-reacted, whatever, it caused DK huge problems but they held out with a superb defensive effort until half time

Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  10   BEDFORD ATHLETIC  8

DK’s 14 men survived until Langford’s return and then laid siege to the visitor’s goal line.  Layton Wilkinson and Ian Langford both went close from driving mauls before the ball was spun wide, Tom Weavers sublime floated pass found Ian Gowland in full flow and the winger duly touched down in the corner to make it 15-8 to DK after 48 minutes.  In severe danger of a damaging defeat the Ath hit back, aided by several poor clearance kicks from DK.  The home side weathered the storm only to be hit by another controversial yellow card, Andy McLellan taking a 10 minute rest for being “persistently offside”.  DK coach Mark Wilson who was close to the action thought that Mr Liddell had got this one badly wrong.  Having already lost one fly half, the disruption caused by the loss of another was a bridge too far for DK who conceded two tries whilst down to 14 men for a second time.  From the penalty given for the yellow card, Ath took immediate advantage of the momentary disarray in the DK backs when, after driving forward, they spun the ball wide to Matt Aldwinkle on the Ath right wing who was able to cruise in unopposed.  Ashley Tapper added the conversion to level the scores at 15-15.  On 64 minutes Tapper again took advantage of the home side’s shortage of numbers with an inch perfect kick to DK’s unguarded left wing where Ath right winger John Wells was able to follow up and touch down in the corner.

Restored to their full complement of players, DK made a determined effort to save the game and may have thought they had when they scored another excellent try after 67 minutes when a tremendous forward drive into the Bedford half released Warren port on the left.  The centre’s break and excellent penetrative chip over the Ath cover saw Ian Gowland quickly onto the ball to hack on, collect and run through for the try.  In Simon Fletcher’s absence Ian Gowland also added the conversion for DK to lead by 22-20.  DK were playing out time comfortably as the Ath forwards had lost much of their earlier thrust and their backs looked incapable of penetrating the re-organised DK cover defence but a lapse of concentration deep into injury time cost DK a deserved win.  Awarded a penalty in the dying seconds, Andy McLellan, who had played extremely well throughout, only succeeded in kicking the ball straight down the Ath left winger Matt Aldwinkle’s throat.  He drove infield to set up a ruck from which centre Jamie Elphick dropped a goal to steal the game for DK’s old rivals Ath at the death. 

Finally, an apology to John Fallon who was erroneously blamed for giving away the last gasp penalty that cost us the game at Luctonians.  It was in fact Fergie!  To be honest I would normally have expected our eagle eyed Director of Rugby, part time editor and players confidante Gordon to have sorted this one out before publication on the sacred web site!  Don’t suppose this last bit will get onto the web!!!

DK are at home to Luctonians next Saturday.  KO 3pm.

Saturday 4 March ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

BROMSGROVE  13   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  31

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Warren Port, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3.Matt Ferguson, 4.Ollie Shakespeare, 5.Ben Connett, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Scott Pugh, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.Hona Kingi 17.Shaun Griffiths, 18.Tom  Bissell.

DK got back to winning ways with a comfortable 5 tries to 2 victory away at bottom club Bromsgrove.  Their control of the game was so complete that they might easily have doubled their score with a little more thought and care.  Poor Bromsgrove are in free fall at present having lost all 18 of their league matches to date.  Their confidence seems to be at a low ebb and this was very apparent as DK raced into a 0-12 lead inside 8 minutes.  All clubs suffer bad patches at times and Bromsgrove will no doubt re-group and emerge stronger next season.  They are a super club with legendary hospitality, a place that you always look forward to visiting.

Richard Port, Pete Knight and Gareth Davies all suffered knocks in last week’s semi final tie against Morley and were replaced by Scott Pugh, Layton Wilkinson and Warren Port respectively.  Layton Wilkinson was named Coaches Man of the Match for a tremendous performance at No 8, making many hard yards from the base of the scrum and generally providing inspiration for the DK pack.  Fellow back row forwards Ian Langford and Scott Pugh were both on top form, turning over a lot of opposition ball in the loose.  Hooker Chris Condliffe also caught the eye with a robust display.  The DK backs had much more room than they had last week, nevertheless ball rarely got out to the wingers, though some credit must be given to the Bromsgrove cover for this as the tackled themselves to a standstill in defence after a faltering start.  Steve Smart is a hard man to defend against given a modicum of space and his two scintillating tries – the second one a 60m peach of a score - made him the outstanding DK back on the day.

It did not take DK long to get into their stride and they were soon running hard at the heart of the Bromsgrove defence.  From a ruck on 4 minutes and with the home cover all over the place, Simon Fletcher’s subtle delayed pass was taken at pace by Andy McLellan who raced in at the posts.  Simon Fletcher converted for DK to lead 0-7.  They were 0-12 up after 8 minutes when from a similar build up Andy McLellan returned the favour by sending in Simon Fletcher for a try, with the home cover again shredded.  Bromsgrove gradually began to settle and centre Kent Summerfield made it 3-12 with an 11^th minute penalty. 

DK again pounded the home line but the Bromsgrove defence managed to keep them out until the 27^th minute when a from a maul 30m out, the alert Scott Pugh spotted Steve Smart lurking in space to his left and a short pass to the winger saw him easily outpace the home cover for an excellent try close in.  Simon Fletcher added the conversion to make the score 3-19.  DK continued to dominate possession and territory but found opportunities limited as the home defence had tightened up considerably and the score remained unchanged up to half time.

                         Half Time:  BROMSGROVE  3   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  19

DK immediately resumed the offensive but were frustrated on several occasions as Bromsgrove clung on grimly up until the 56^th minute when DK scored a spectacular try.  Nothing looked on as scrum half Alan Mitchell, near the DK 10m line, spun a pass out to Steve Smart on his right.  Smarty turned up the gas to weave fully 60m at great pace in and out of the Bromsgrove rearguard to score a magnificent unconverted try, increasing the DK lead to 3-24. 

Bromsgrove got some light relief after 59 minutes when DK’s replacement fly half Tom Bissell lost control of a kick inside the 22.  The Bromsgrove pack reacted quickly to steal the ball and drive up and over the DK line wide out where replacement forward Ross Baxter was accredited with the touchdown making the score 8-24.  DK then lost lock Ollie Shakespeare to the sin bin after 61 minutes as he was yellow carded for impeding Bromsgrove as they tried to take a penalty.  Bromsgrove though were unable to make the extra man count, in fact it was 14 man DK that went further ahead after 69 minutes when, after heavy forward pressure Tom Bissell found Rhys Crane with a well timed pass and the centre stepped through the cover to score at the posts.  Simon Fletcher converted making it 8-31.

The Bromsgrove goal line then led a charmed life as DK battered away at it for the last ten minutes of the game, coming close to another try on at least four occasions.  However Bromsgrove held firm and amazingly had the last word when a pass from Andy McLellan, meant for prop Hona Kingi was easily intercepted by the Bromsgrove right winger Richard Stockholm who had a clear run to the DK line to score the final try in injury time making it 13-31.

DK are at home to Bedford Athletic next week.  KO 3pm.                                 Back to top

Saturday 25 February ~ POWERGEN INTERMEDIATE CUP SEMI FINAL

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 11 - MORLEY 15

     

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Steve Smart, 14.Warren Port, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Gareth Davies, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3.John Fallon, 4.Ollie Shakespeare, 5.Ben Connett, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8.Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Chris Condliffe, 17.Matt Ferguson, 18.Scott Pugh, 19.Layton Wilkinson, 20.Shaun Griffiths, 21.Tom Weaver, 22. Andy McLellan.

 

Coaches Man of the Match – Team Award

Despite a hugely committed team performance, DK fell at the last hurdle in front of a large crowd at Heathbrook against North 1 league leaders and current Powergen Intermediate Cup holders Morley.  Though there was not a lot in it at the end, Morley deserved their narrow victory for their forwards inspired comeback midway through the second half after DK had just taken the lead and, with the wind at their backs, threatened to topple the cup holders.  DK had done pretty well in the first half, playing into the teeth of a strong and bitterly cold wind, they restricted Morley to a modest seven point advantage. This did not look nearly enough given the fierce elements would be against the visitors in the second half.  Fair play to Morley though, they handled the early second half pressure from DK that saw the home side edge in front and then came back strongly to regain the lead with a commanding 20 minute spell from their forwards who took the ball at pace to punch large holes into the home defences.  DK got back on top in the last 10 minutes but just missed out on a couple of crucial chances as they chased the game.

 

One of the most disappointing features of the game for DK was that yet again they struggled to give their talented backs anywhere near enough decent, quick ball when in possession.  This has been a recurring problem for a couple of months now.  With established fly halves Eddie Smith and Matt Birch both seemingly out for the season with injuries, centre Simon Fletcher has filled this role successfully in what is an unaccustomed position for him, He coped well under pressure that the Morley back row and halfbacks exerted. The forwards battled hard against a very good Morley eight none more so than skipper and second row Ben Connett who skilfully disrupted the Morley throw on several occasions; his injury in the second half was a major blow as Morley had no further lineout problems following his exit.  Richard Port also had a great game until he was also injured in the second half.  The loss of these two coincided directly with Morley’s second half resurgence.

 

There was very little between the sides early on but Morley did have the advantage of a strong, icy wind at their backs.  Nevertheless it was DK that took a 3-0 lead on 14 minutes when Simon Fletcher stroked over the penalty after Morley were offside at a ruck.  Morley had a few uncomfortable moments as DK roared on by the partisan Heathbrook crowd tore into their northern opponents but a poor DK clearance put the home side under pressure with consecutive lineouts 5m out, Ben Connett saving the day by stealing the second one. 

 

Morley had by now come into the game more and they scored a try after 29 minutes.  DK had uncharacteristically missed a forward tackle on the blind side of the scrum.  Morley rumbled forward and a slick pass found second row Craig Rika in space near the touchline, he was able to sprint round to the posts unopposed.  Fly half Pete Murphy added the conversion and then a 40^th minute penalty for Morley to lead 3-10 at half time.  An injury to former England scrum half Scott Benton disrupted play just before half time, former Welsh international Colin Stephens came on at fly half as Morley re-jigged their side    

 

Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  3   MORLEY 7

 

A superb break from Rhys Crane right at the start of the second half saw him hauled down inches short of the Morley line and then penalised for a double movement as he stretched to score.  Encouraged by this DK went one better after 48 minutes when they conjured up the try of the game.  Another superlative break from Rhys Crane followed by an equally good one from Warren Port ended with skipper Ben Connett, up in support, plunging over for a thrilling try in the corner.  The difficult conversion was missed and DK trailed by just two points at 8-10.  The visitors were rattled again on 50 minutes when a Simon Fletcher penalty gave DK an 11-10 lead but this was to be the signal for a concerted effort from the Morley forwards who must have feared the game was slipping away.  They hit every ruck and maul with power and carried the ball forward with great strength and pace, there was very little the DK pack could do about it and the visitors really should have scored after 58 minutes when their best forward, blindside flanker Craig Field, split the DK cover with a fine break but in going for glory instead of passing wide he was tackled and an easy try went begging.

 

Morley kept up the pressure but DK defended resolutely until the 65^th minute when that wily old campaigner Colin Stephens spotted that the DK cover was AWOL on the right wing and his precision pass sent in centre Matt Callaghan for the try that regained the lead (11-15) for the visitors.   With their noses in front Morley sat back on their lead and it was almost their undoing as DK poured forward in the last 10 minutes.  Almost on time, tremendous rucking and driving took DK up to the Morley goal line and with the visitors defence at sixes and sevens the ball was quickly spun to Gareth Davies less than 2m out. Ninety nine times out of a hundred would have scored.  Unfortunately this time he could not hold the pass.  There was still time but Ian Gowland’s late burst down the wing saw him bundled into touch right at the corner and this signalled the final whistle.  Thanks to Morley for a good clean game and good luck against Stockport in the final.

 

DK are back in league action away at Bromsgrove next week.  KO 3.00 pm.

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Saturday 18th February ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1
LUCTONIANS 13 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 12

Dudley Kingswinford: 15. Steve Smart, 14.Warren Port, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11.Tui Asi Pito, 10.Tom Bissell, 9.Eddie Nicholls, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3. Matt Ferguson, 4.Ollie Shakespeare, 5.Ben Connett, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8.Layton Wilkinson. Reps: 16.John Fallon, 17.Pete Knight, 18.Pete Stinton Jnr.,

DK lost a game that they were leading 10-12 and playing out time in reasonable comfort, by giving away a totally unnecessary penalty for pulling down a maul in the 7th minute of injury time. Considering they had to make a staggering ten changes (three of which were positional) from last week’s side, due to a combination of suspension, injuries and non availability, the performance in another dreary game could perhaps be excused, though they were extremely disappointed to lose a game where they had outscored their hosts by two tries to one and never really looked like conceding a try themselves. In fact Luctonians despite adequate possession and territory, were toothless in attack and rarely threatened DK’s line during in the entire game. Their sole try coming as a result of a bizarre DK error midway through the second half. It was not one of referee Tony Gardners better games he missed too many infringements and gave a couple of unbelievably poor decisions, though perhaps Luctonians had much more to complain about than DK as the worst decision of all went against them.

So what went wrong? A major factor was painfully slow ball to the backs. With half backs Eddie Nicholls and Tom Bissell making their first full senior appearances due to DK’s selection problems, things took time to gel. Eddie had a pretty fair debut, has a good pass and will be a better player for the experience. Young Tom Bissell kicked with great confidence and no little skill out of his hands but needs to work hard on his distribution if he is to make a real impact at senior level; it was a little too ponderous and predictable at times. The pack played well in patches and not surprisingly both of the Luctonians old boys in the DK front row prop Matt Ferguson and hooker Chris Condliffe played out of their skins, Matt Ferguson was named Coaches Man of the Match for a top notch performance in both the tight and loose areas. Layton Wilkinson also had a solid game at No 8 always making good ground from the base. With defences on top in the game the DK backs had little chance to shine but Gareth Davies and Simon Fletcher looked pretty much impregnable in the centre and the home backs never got a sniff.

Luctonians had most of the early pressure, fly half Jeremy Wheadon missed a 1st minute penalty but eventually put the home side 3-0 ahead with another on 18 minutes. DK looked very comfortable under pressure and thwarted all Luc’s could throw at them, gradually coming into the game more as an attacking force, though they tended to overcomplicate, often using three passes to do the job of one. Wheadon missed a penalty chance for Lucs on half an hour and Simon Fletcher missed one for DK after 37 minutes. DK mounted several good attacks towards half time and really should have scored in stoppage time when with a 2 man overlap on the left, Tom Bissell’s floated pass was intercepted and the chance lost.

Half Time: LUCTONIANS 3 DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 0

The half began with Tom Bissell narrowly missing a penalty for DK and then the visitors lost Tui Asi Pito with what was thought to be a suspected broken arm. Fly half Pete Stinton Jnr. came off the bench to play his first game for the seniors since his record breaking 1998-9 season but for some inexplicable reason he was sent to play full back. DK had been crying out all game for a bit of flair and panache to lead their back line, someone who could have got right in behind the home defences and caused some real panic. It could so easily have made all the difference to the final result. Many of the watching DK faithful were nonplussed, not least his old man!

The onset of the second half saw perhaps the worst passage of play from a DK side for many a season. Firstly on 46 minutes Rhys Crane was up too quickly in the line and Kettering centre Paul Gibson simply sidestepped the charge and scored with ease. Nicky Bouy converted and suddenly Kettering were only a point behind at 16-15. It got a lot worse a minute later when Andy McLellan drove into the Kettering pack only to be relieved of the ball which was swiftly re-cycled wide to outside centre Paul Baird who outpaced the misaligned DK cover to score. Nicky Bouy again converted and Kettering took the lead for the first time at 16-22. Tails up, Kettering were a bit too ambitious in their next attack on 49 minutes and Rhys Crane made up for his earlier error by intercepting a poor pass and sprinting to the posts for the try. Simon Fletcher converted and DK were now back a point in front at 23-22. This proved to be only light relief as poor defence again saw DK leak another try. This time Kettering scrum half Darren Etheridge was allowed to sprint unchallenged from a maul almost 30m out and Nicky Bouy’s conversion saw the visitors ahead again at 23-29.

Now playing with more confidence DK began to get on top but shot themselves in the foot after 57 minutes when, in possession and under no pressure at all, they gave away a bizarre try. Ian Langford was tackled but managed to get the ball to Steve Smart. Smarty was then tackled but instead of making the ball safe he threw a wild pass straight into the arms of Lucs right winger Smith who couldn’t believe his luck as he cantered 45m to the corner to score. Jeremy Wheadon kicked the conversion from the touchline that proved to be a crucial score in the game for Lucs to lead 10-7. A period of unproductive home pressure followed before DK resumed the offensive and penned Lucs inside their own half for the whole of the last 10 minutes, spurning three kickable penalties to catch and drive. On the third C & D after 82 minutes DK drove an unstoppable maul over the home line for John Fallon to touch down. Tom Bissell just failed with the crucial conversion that would have meant Lucs would have to score a try to win. As it was DK were still vulnerable leading by 10-12 and try scorer John Fallon went from Hero to Zero when he gave away the vital penalty for bringing down a maul fully 7 minutes into injury time. Jeremy Wheadon made no mistake to make it 13-12 and DK were left to contemplate what might have been.

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Saturday 11th February ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1
DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 33 - KETTERING 29

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Warren Port, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.John Fallon, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Hona Kingi, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Pete Knight, 8.Layton Wilkinson.  Reps: 16.Matt Ferguson, 17.Ben Connett, 18.Robbie Jones,

It was almost a case of “After the Lord Mayor’s show”, DK’s performance against Kettering was as dismal and dreary as their showing against Weston-Super-Mare last week had been brilliant.  After a good start, going 10-0 up within the first 5 minutes and 16-8 by half time, the home side defended dreadfully at the start of the second half , conceding three tries in 6 minutes to a startled but grateful Kettering, they were all down to crass and unforced, defensive errors.  This left them to play “Catch-up Rugby” which they just about managed to do thanks to their two captains on the field.  Pete Knight, skipper for the day scored the winning try in the last minute and club captain Ben Connett who had come off the bench, stole a crucial Kettering lineout on the DK 5m line deep into stoppage time.  Kettering may feel understandably aggrieved at losing the game so late in the day but they were hardly robbed.  That they were still in the game at all was mainly due to the largesse of the DK cover defence.

DK made several changes from the side that beat Weston, Warren Port replacing Tom Weaver in the centre, John Fallon came in at loose head prop for Matt Ferguson and Shaun Griffiths for Ben Connett in the second row.  With last week’s Man of the Match Richard Port being rested, Pete Knight was on the open side flank and Layton Wilkinson at No 8.  John Fallon in his first senior start for several years after working abroad, was named Coaches Man of the Match for a typically rugged all round performance.  Anyone up against “Judge” Fallon will certainly know they have been in a tough game.  He even scored from a catch and drive that the ref described as the best try of the game.  Adam Blackford and Layton Wilkinson both had good games and the back row contested well, they had to as DK’s young second row pairing of Ollie Shakespeare and Shaun Griffiths, though doing well in the lineouts and set scrums, were taught a few lessons in the loose by Kettering’s more experienced pair, their Skipper Martin Roberts and Graham Wilson.  It was a very disappointing game for the backs.  The ball was generally far too slow from the halfbacks and rarely got to the danger areas on the wings, being either tied up in the centre or run back (fruitlessly) into the pack.  DK have real talent out wide and it needs to be utilised.  Steve Smart used to score tries for fun from full back but both he and Ian Gowland were out in the cold yesterday - literally!

DK began in a hurry Simon Fletcher kicked them 3-0 ahead after 2 minutes and though a penalty catch and drive was thwarted on 5 minutes the ball was spun out to Rhys Crane whose pace enabled him to break the tackle and score close in.  Simon Fletcher added the conversion for DK to lead 10-0.  Instead of consolidating their advantage DK immediately let Kettering back into the game.  On 7 minutes the visitor’s pack drove DK back all too easily for all of 30m in the loose before releasing fly half David Styles who weaved through to score an unconverted try in the corner making it 10-5. 

                  Kettering’s big lock forwards continued to cause problems for DK but full back Nicky Bouy missed a kickable penalty after 17 minutes following good forward pressure.  Simon Fletcher put over a 23^rd minute penalty to make it 13-5 but Nicky Bough replied with one for Kettering on the half hour for 13-8.  Whilst DK were arguably the more talented side they could not put two phases together at this stage and Kettering looked the more composed side.  Nevertheless Simon Fletcher increased the DK lead to 16-8 with a 35^th minute penalty before the welcome half time whistle relieved the tedium.

                   Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  16   KETTERING  8

The onset of the second half saw perhaps the worst passage of play from a DK side for many a season.  Firstly on 46 minutes Rhys Crane was up too quickly in the line and Kettering centre Paul Gibson simply sidestepped the charge and scored with ease.  Nicky Bouy converted and suddenly Kettering were only a point behind at 16-15.  It got a lot worse a minute later when Andy McLellan drove into the Kettering pack only to be relieved of the ball which was swiftly re-cycled wide to outside centre Paul Baird who outpaced the misaligned DK cover to score.  Nicky Bouy again converted and Kettering took the lead for the first time at 16-22.  Tails up, Kettering were a bit too ambitious in their next attack on 49 minutes and Rhys Crane made up for his earlier error by intercepting a poor pass and sprinting to the posts for the try.  Simon Fletcher converted and DK were now back a point in front at 23-22.  This proved to be only light relief as poor defence again saw DK leak another try.  This time Kettering scrum half Darren Etheridge was allowed to sprint unchallenged from a maul almost 30m out and Nicky Bouy’s conversion saw the visitors ahead again at 23-29.

DK, now in mortal danger of losing a home game gradually pulled themselves together.  Possibly the arrival of Captain Ben Connett from the bench galvanised the side, but DK were suddenly far more focused and began to put the visitors under heavy and sustained pressure.  From a penalty catch and drive after 57 minutes John Fallon was driven over for a textbook try to bring DK within a point at 28-29.  Simon Fletcher saw his 72^nd minute penalty sail agonisingly wide but after further, constant heavy pressure DK finally achieved the winning score on 79 minutes.  From a scrum15m out Pete Knight broke from the base to scorch to the line for a tremendous try as the Kettering back row seemed to be arguing amongst themselves.  This put DK 33-29 ahead but there was one last drama as Kettering poured forward to save the game.  They gained a lineout deep in injury time 5m out from the DK line but before they could set themselves for the catch and drive DK skipper Ben Connett dashed their hopes by superbly stealing the ball against the throw.  All in all not a great performance but a very welcome two points.

DK are away at Luctonians (league) next Saturday.  KO 2.15pm.

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Saturday 4 February ~ (POWERGEN INTERMEDIATE CUP ROUND 6)

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 27 WESTON SUPER MARE 15

 

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Tom Weaver, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Matt Ferguson, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Hona Kingi, 4.Ben Connett, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8.Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Chris Condliffe, 17.John Fallon, 18.Robbie Jones, 19.Layton Wilkinson.

DK are again one match from a Twickenham final, they tore up the form book with this exhilarating Quarter Final victory over South West 1 league leaders Weston Super Mare.  The West Country side have been unbeaten in all competitions this season.  They have won all 12 of their league games to date and were one of the strong favourites to lift the Powergen Intermediate Cup this season; amazingly their oldest player is 24!  In contrast DK have had a miserable few weeks with injuries decimating the side and ruining their promotion chances.  However it is the Black Country boys that have deservedly made it into the hat for the last four in the competition and they are set to face Morley, Cheltenham North or Stockport in the Semi-Final.

After the disappointments of the past few weeks it seems a fair question to ask how come the side managed to play so well against top opposition yesterday?  The answer was that Coaches Man of the Match Richard Port had returned from injury.  DK’s superb No 7 was only on the field for an hour before succumbing with a back twinge but he put more tackles in during those sixty minutes than most flankers would in a full game.  His contribution to DK’s fine win was enormous.  It was a very encouraging performance from the whole team and especially from unsung heroes Ollie Shakespeare and Adam Blackford in the pack and all of the backs.  The DK back row came off best in a battle royal against their talented Weston counterparts, gradually wearing the youngsters down. The Weston supporters thought that Simon Fletcher led our line very well and he did despite having a long pass intercepted at the death for the second week running.  Don’t make it a hat trick next week Si!  Ian Gowland scored a breathtaking try, we just need to give him more decent ball and Andy McLellan had his best game for a while, his hands were like flypaper in a confident and assured catching and handling performance.  Finally a word for young centre Tom Weaver standing in for flu victim Gareth Davies, Tom’s magnificent break early in the second half to set up Richard Port’s try was a killer blow from which Weston never recovered.

The first 10 minutes or so were pretty even as the sides both probed for weaknesses but it was very apparent early on that the DK lads were really up for it and with the forwards keeping up the pressure on their West Country visitors the omens were good.  Simon Fletcher missed a long range penalty after 7 minutes but DK soon got into their stride and on 18 minutes Fletcher’s chip over the top saw the Weston cover at sixes and sevens.  Though the ball was gathered by a defender his attempted clearance was charged down by the alert Steve Smart who quickly followed up to touch down for the try and a 5-0 lead for DK. 

The home side then hit Weston with a marvellous second try 6 minutes later on 24 minutes.  DK won a lineout against the throw inside their 22.  The forwards drove 15m before Alan Mitchell fed Ian Gowland on the blindside, the winger broke at pace, chipped his opposite number then raced through to catch the ball on the bounce before skinning the rest of the cover for a brilliant unconverted try to make it 10-0.  These unexpected reverses galvanised the Weston side and they began to put DK under pressure for the first time with several slick attacks that were well defended by DK.  On 37 minutes a Weston attack gave them a two man overlap on the left but Rhys Crane read the pass superbly to steal the ball by intercepting and sprinting 50m to the posts.  Simon Fletcher converted and DK were 17-0 up.  Weston were not playing at all badly, but DK had made the most of their chances and fully deserved their comfortable half time lead.

            Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  17   WESTON SUPER MARE  0

A wonderful passage of play right at the start of the second half saw DK gain an ultimately unassailable lead.  Pete Knight picked up from a scrum near the Weston 10m line and fed scrum half Alan Mitchell who popped a pass to centre Tom Weaver arriving at pace, Weaver broke the first tackle and his super break was only halted on the Weston goal line, he managed to give an inside pass to Richard Port who plunged over for DK’s fourth try.  Simon Fletcher converted for DK to go 24-0 up.

Weston’s fly half James Reid finally got points on the board for the visitors with a 52^nd minute penalty but Simon Fletcher restored DK’s advantage with a 64^th minute effort to make it 27-3.  DK rang the changes using all their replacements and it was good to see prop John Fallon back in the first team after a few years absence.  Weston were determined not to go down without a fight and after heavy pressure on the home goal line second row Andy Richards finally breached the DK line on 72 minutes, driving over from a maul.  James Reid converted to make it 27-10.  DK should have had another score on 74 minutes after a fine break from Steve Smart but a wrong option was taken and the chance went begging.  Another DK attack on 80 minutes saw them with men over on the left but Simon Fletcher’s attempted long pass was too predictable and replacement back Luke Hember  made a clean interception to score at the posts and make the score a little more respectable though James Reid missed the easy conversion.

DK are back in league action next Saturday at home to Kettering.  KO 2.30pm

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Saturday 28 January ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

MARKET BOSWORTH 29 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 8

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Steve Smart, 13.Tom Weaver, 12.Gareth Davies, 11.Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Robbie Jones, 1.Matt Ferguson, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Hona Kingi, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7. Pete Knight, 8.Ben Connett.  Reps: 16.Dan Shakespeare, 17.Alan Mitchell, 18.Nigel Francis.

DK made ten changes for this game, some positional but mostly enforced.  Their already depleted ranks are now down to the bare bones; the performance of the side reflected this and was predictably abject.  Conversely Bosworth were fortunate enough to welcome back several key players from injury to add to their confidence.  Losing to a very good Lions side last week was perhaps understandable, but even with the latest disruptions to their squad, DK had enough possession to have fared much better against a hardworking but very moderate Market Bosworth side. The fact that they did not says everything about the current state of disarray in the DK 1^st XV.  In a nutshell Bosworth were much the better side on the day and DK were well, pretty awful, but perhaps the worst performance of all was from referee Nick Ashton who lost control of the game in the second half through a rash of poor decisions for both sides and his almost farcical interpretation (or non interpretation!) of the offside laws brought hoots of derision from both sets of supporters.

The changes from last week included the whole of the front row and further disruption in the back row where DK were without a specialist openside flanker playing  Ian Langford and Pete Knight, a No 8 on the flanks with skipper Ben Connett having his first league outing of the season at No 8.  The absence of an out and out No 7 had the effect of giving the Bosworth backs far too much leeway and only their poor handling saved DK from a worse hiding.  Overall the back row, so often DK’s strength, was wholly ineffective in stemming the charges of Bosworth’s best forward No 8 John Bosanquet.  The former prop had a field day and was the instigator and main momentum of most of Bosworth’s forward pressure throughout.  It was a similar story in the backs, painfully slow ball meant that the Bosworth defence was rarely tested as they were able to snuff out the stilted DK attacks with some ease.  Both Simon Fletcher and Andy McLellan had a poor day with the boot, often unable to clear the ball to touch even from penalties and kicking away hard won possession on several occasions.

There was an early indication that this was going to be an uncomfortable afternoon when the DK front row was lifted bodily out of first two scrums.  The visitors were immediately driven onto the back foot and had to defend desperately, this they did with a combination of grit, guile and the occasional desperate offside.  Fortunately for DK penalising offside was not one of ref Mr Ashton’s few strong points and DK survived until fly half Damien Steele put Bosworth 6-0 up with two penalties on 20 and 23 minutes.  DK seemed to have weathered the storm and put together a couple of promising attacks until disaster struck on 26 minutes.  DK gained good, quick possession just inside the Bosworth half, the ball was spun to Simon Fletcher but his attempted long pass was laboured and spotted early by Bosworth centre Richard Robinson who intercepted and cruised in at the posts unopposed for the try.  Damien Steele added the conversion for the home side to lead 13-0.

Simon Fletcher kicked a 29^th minute penalty for DK for 13-3 but Steele restored the home side’s margin with a 36^th minute penalty for another DK unforced error, making it 16-3.  At this stage DK were still under some pressure in the set scrum and getting very little possession.  They did however get an unexpected break in stoppage time when Bosworth fumbled the ball on halfway and Ian Gowland scooped it up to out sprint the Bosworth cover for a fine unconverted 45m try.

               Half Time:   MARKET BOSWORTH  16   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  8

DK incurred several penalties early on and Steele kicked one on 46 minutes to put Bosworth 19-8 up before a ludicrous 52^nd minute yellow card for DK’s Pete Knight, for coming into the ruck from the side (which he patently did not) scuppered any remaining chance DK had.  The game disintegrated for a while as the hapless official lost control, red carding the home No 7 on 54 minutes for fighting.  The incident looked about 50:50 and very harsh indeed.  Even down to 14 men Bosworth continued to force the pace and a penalty catch and drive after 59 minutes saw their irrepressible No 8 John Bosanquet over the DK line to make it 24-8.  Matt Ferguson was the refs next yellow card victim on 73 minutes, no one was too sure why.  It definitely would not have been for offside as at this stage both sides seemed to be living offside!

Bosworth rounded off what had become a rout with a last minute score when Simon Fletcher lost the ball forward in a maul and suddenly Bosworth had a 5:1 advantage out wide.  Home scrum half Steve Wallace sending in winger Paul Simpkin.for the final score and a 29-8 victory for Market Bosworth.

DK are at home to Weston Super Mare next week in the quarter final of the Powergen Intermediate Cup.  KO 2.30pm

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Saturday 21 January ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 7 - RUGBY LIONS 32

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Steve Smart, 14.Robbie Jones, 13.Andy McLellan, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Tui Asi Pito, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3. Dan Shakespeare, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Scott Pugh, 8. Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Ben Connett, 17Hona Kingi, 18.Nigel Francis.

DK’s dwindling hopes of a swift return to National League rugby were dashed as they were comprehensively beaten by champions elect Rugby Lions who gained revenge for their shock home league defeat against DK back in October. The visitors were very, very impressive on the day and are the best side by a long way that DK have faced in Midlands 1 this season.  Lions play an attractive fast, open game and whilst it is inevitable that the pace of their game results in the occasional error, some of the rugby they played was scintillating.  It was not as though DK played particularly badly, they defended superbly at times but the injury ravaged squad with no less than eight first teamers currently injured or unavailable were unable to stem the flood of possession created by the Lions big front five, especially the highly impressive front row as they gradually wore down the battling home side.  Lions blindside flanker Wilf Barclay was also outstanding throughout.

Full back Steve Smart returned to DK’s starting line up for the first time since his two try, match winning performance at Webb Ellis road back in October, due to DK’s injury crisis he was pitched straight back in without the luxury of a warm-up game and under the circumstances did very well.  DK’s overworked back row also performed heroically against the odds and Gareth Davies looked as good as any back on the field but the Coaches Man of the Match award went to Simon Fletcher for a tremendous defensive performance whilst still playing out of position at fly half.

Lions immediately gave notice of their intentions; they should have scored on 3 minutes as they disrupted an early DK scrum then broke forward in numbers with the home side’s cover in some disarray, but were guilty of a forward pass right on the DK goal line.  Lion’s early power in thee set scrums looked ominous for DK and the visitors again came close on a couple of occasions.  DK were forced into giving away penalties, Lion’s full back Glenn Boyd missed one on 15 minutes but put Lions 0-3 ahead with another effort on 19 minutes.  Though DK had defended heroically their line was finally breached after 26 minutes when Lions fly half Tommy Turner cleverly held the ball up for wing James Hawken to score on the burst, Boyd converted to make it 0-10. 

Boyd was again on target with a 33^rd minute penalty to increase Lion’s lead to 0-13 and to add to DK’s woes hooker Chris Condliffe was yellow carded shortly afterwards for making comments to the referee. DK were then very unlucky to concede a second try in stoppage time when the referee Mr Steggall waved play on after Lions had patently knocked on.  Whilst DK fatally hesitated, awaiting the whistle, Lions quickly broke upfield where flanker Alex Nash took a scoring pass leaving DK a trifle unfortunate to be 0-18 down at the break.  Just prior to the whistle DK were down to 13 men when Wayne Millard and Lion’s Simon Kellar were yellow carded for fighting.

                           Half Time:  DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  0   RUGBY LIONS  18

DK’s defence held firm until the 56^th minute when an excellent break and chip ahead from Lion’s centre Matt Goode was swooped upon by second row Paul Thompson who scored under the posts, Boyd converted and Lions were cruising at 0-25.  The pressure was relentless and Lions scored again on 61 minutes when a penalty catch and drive saw hooker Matt Davies score close in.  Boyd converted again to make it 0-32.  Just when a real hiding looked probable DK had their best spell of the game and the last quarter was played exclusively in the Lion’s half.  A gilt edged chance was missed on 75 minutes when Andy McLellan held on to the ball a fraction too long with two men outside him in a 3:1 overlap.  DK then spent 10 minutes on the Lion’s goal line but were thwarted by superb cover defence until Pete Knight finally crashed over in the 6^th minute of stoppage time, Simon Fletcher converting DK’s only try of the game. 

DK are in the last eight of the Powergen Intermediate Cup reviving memories of the 1999-2000 season when DK reached the final at Twickenham before being narrowly defeated by Aldwinians. This time they have a home tie against Weston Super Mare from South West 1 division, on Saturday February 4^th.  It should be a great day, watch the First XV (KO 2pm) then England Vs Wales in the clubhouse afterwards.  Hopefully DK will have several more players back from injury and available for this tie.  Be there to support the lads!

DK Colts beat Stourbridge Colts 20-8 to reach the last 16 of the National Colts Cup.  Next up Rochdale at home TBA.

DK are away at Market Bosworth next week KO 2.15pm.

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Saturday 14 January ~ (POWERGEN INTERMEDIATE CUP ROUND 5)

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 21 - LUTON 14

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Tui Asi Pito, 13.Rhys Crane, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Matt Ferguson, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8. Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Chris Condliffe, 17.Ben Connett, 18.Ed Nicholls, 19. Dan Shakespeare.

Having already beaten Luton home and away in the league this season, DK looked to have the measure of their opponents once again and really should have had this game comfortably sewn up at half time.  Their first half domination was so complete that Luton had only one attack of note during the first 40 minutes.  The home side wasted a hatful of scoring opportunities with shoddy finishing and by continually taking wrong options.  To say that the 14-0 lead at the break was disappointing would be an understatement; it should have been 30 to 40 points minimum.  DK’s first half profligacy almost cost them the game as first they lost Richard Port with a back injury then Ian Langford to a yellow card, at the same time Pete Knight also took a hard knock and was hobbling for a time.  Shorn, albeit temporarily, of their most potent weapon, the back row, DK were suddenly under heavy pressure and on the back foot at the start of the second half, only a superb interception try from Rhys Crane and some solid defence, kept their noses in front until the welcome final whistle.

DK made only one change from the side that won at Burton, Rhys Crane replacing Tom Weaver (hamstring) at outside centre with Chris Condliffe, Ben Connett, Eddie Nicholls and Dan Shakespeare making up the bench.  There were several candidates for Coaches Man of the Match, All of the back row, Richard Port, Pete Knight and Ian Langford were outstanding until disrupted by injuries and a yellow card.  Gareth Davies and Rhys Crane looked a very dangerous combination in the centre with Rhys Crane’s superb defensive tackling in particular catching the eye, but it was old stalwart Wayne Millard who won the accolade for an excellent game in the loose and a very efficient job in the tight at loose head against Luton’s Bas Singh.  The Luton skipper must be heartily sick of the sight of Wayne who has given him absolutely nothing at all so far this season!

In a whirlwind start DK immediately pinned Luton back on their goal line and after several strong drives close to the line in-form flanker Ian Langford barged over for his eleventh try of the season after only 3 minutes.  Ian Gowland kicked the conversion for DK to lead 7-0.  DK should have gone further ahead on 14 minutes when Gareth Davies broke clear but his scoring pass to Ian Langford was adjudged to be forward.  DK squandered many more opportunities before they scored again on 28 minutes.  The game being played exclusively in the Luton half at this stage and constant pressure saw Luton short of cover as No 8 Pete Knight broke blind from a scrum to feed scrum half Alan Mitchell who sent in Tui Asi Pito for the try.  Ian Gowland again converted for DK to lead 14-0.

After further intense pressure DK were then guilty of the miss of the game after Gareth Davies had again cleverly breached the Luton cover and fixed the full back who was the last line of defence, to give Rhys Crane the simplest of scoring passes only for the youngster to make perhaps his only mistake of the game by dropping the ball when a try seemed a certainty.  Considering the territory and possession DK had enjoyed, 14-0 was a very poor half time return.

                               Half Time:  DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  14   LUTON  0

The game was turned on it’s head very quickly as the second half began.  Richard Port who had been superb on the openside flank had to retire with a back injury, then blindside flanker Ian Langford was yellow carded for killing the ball on 44 minutes.  These setbacks were compounded when No 8 Pete Knight received a hard knock and DK’s formidable back row was suddenly rendered impotent for a time.  Luton who had not had even a sniff of a try up to then were suddenly on the offensive and able to give their talented backs, Simon Lincoln in particular, some decent ball.  The visitors first try however was forwards effort, skipper Bas Singh being driven over from a rolling maul with DK still reeling from their back row problems.  Fly Half James Offer converted the try for Luton to reduce the deficit to 14-7 on 46 minutes.  DK though under severe pressure managed to survive until Ian Langford returned to the fray.

On 63 minutes DK got the break they desperately needed when Rhys Crane made up for his earlier howler with a brilliantly taken interception try from 50m out.  A long, high Luton attacking pass was superbly taken two handed above his head and at pace by Crane who raced in under the posts unopposed.  Ian Gowland’s third conversion gave DK breathing space at 21-7.  Luton though were far from finished and they took full advantage of DK’s inexplicable ploy of woeful kicks straight down the throats of the pacy Luton backs.  One such error brought Luton right back into the game.  A poorly directed DK kick was run back at them by the admirable Simon Lincoln.  The centre carved over 60m with some ease through the DK ranks to send in full back Mark Mansfield for a very good try.  James Offer converted for 21-14 on 67 minutes.  Another superb break from Lincoln after 70 minutes almost brought another Luton try but a knock on saved the day for the home side who then managed to play out time without further incident.

DK are back in league action next week at home to league leaders Rugby Lions next Saturday.  KO 2.15 pm.

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Saturday 7 January ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

BURTON 19 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 26

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Tui Asi Pito, 13.Tom Weaver, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Matt Ferguson, 4.Shaun Griffiths, 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8. Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Dan Shakespeare, 17.Dan Billington, 18.Ed Nicholls.

Just as in their home game against Burton in November, DK gifted their opponents’ two soft tries in the first 20 minutes before taking a firm grip on the game to be 12-26 up and coasting after 52minutes.  However, despite almost totally controlling the last half hour in which they were mainly camped in the home 22, a lack of flair and ideas meant that they could not add to their score in what could and should have been a very comfortable forty pointer.  To add insult to injury they allowed Burton’s excellent wing Adrian Hales to break in the 7^th minute of injury time and give centre John Leason a scoring pass for a converted try that made the score almost respectable for a very average Burton side.

DK are still missing several key players, prop Hona Kingi is on holiday, skipper Ben Connett has the flu and Steve Smart, Eddie Smith, Matt Birch and Nigel Francis are all still recovering from injuries.  Shaun Griffiths came into the second row and had one of his best ever games for the club.  He was Mark Wilson’s Coaches Man of the Match for a tremendously athletic all round display, working hard in the scrum one minute and corner flagging to make a vital tackle the next.  Loose head Wayne Millard also had a great game, well on top of his opposite number in the set scrums and always a force in the loose.  Not a great game for the backs.  The distribution was poor at times and the cover defence was found seriously wanting in the opening stages of the game, Gareth Davies rescuing his side on more than one occasion.

It was a case of Déjà vu for DK as they made the worst possible start, handing Burton a two try cushion inside the first quarter of the game just as they had done in the corresponding home fixture at Heathbrook.  Even worse was the fact that both tries were scored from set pieces.  After 4 minutes DK lost their own lineout throw inside the 22 - the lineout was to prove a problem for DK throughout – Burton immediately swept the ball wide and with DK’s defence stretched centre Matt Tivey scored in the corner.  Fellow centre John Leason converted to put the home side 7-0 up.  Simon Fletcher (2) kicked penalties for DK on 8 mins and 11 mins to make it 7-6 but poor defence again let DK down on 19 minutes.  From a set scrum near the DK 22, Burton scrum half Steve Edwards went blind and fed full back Tom Bartram, entering the line inside the centres.  Neither the back row or cover defence reacted in time as he ran straight through to the posts unopposed to make it 12-6.

Suitably embarrassed, DK turned up the heat and another Simon Fletcher penalty reduced the arrears to 12-9 after 27 minutes.  The game turned a little ugly and DK’s Matt Ferguson and Burton’s Ian Gilmour were yellow carded for fighting but at last DK were pulling themselves together and in first half stoppage time a catch and drive saw Alan Mitchell’s short pass taken on the open side by Tui Asi Pito, thundering in form his wing to crash over at the posts.  Simon Fletcher added the conversion for DK to lead for the first time by 12-16.

Half Time:  BURTON  12   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  16

DK continued to have the upper hand and pressed hard from the outset.  They retained the ball well and from a ruck just on the Burton 22 the ball was moved blind to Ian Langford lurking on the left wing.  The big flanker brushed off three tackles to power over in the corner for an unconverted try to make it 12-21 on 44 minutes.  DK were now well on top and put their hosts under increasing pressure.  It all got too much for Burton’s hot headed scrum half Steve Edwards whose verbal assault on the referee gained him firstly a yellow card followed quickly by a red as, crazily, he kept up the barrage!  DK opted for a 5m scrum from the ensuing penalty, drove Burton back and scrum half Alan Mitchell darted over from 3m out to make it 12-26.  DK spent the last half hour in the vicinity of the Burton line but without much invention.  They had numerous opportunities to hand Burton a real hiding but took far too many wrong options and were punished at the death when a fine break out of defence from winger Adrian Hales gave John Leason the opportunity to score and convert a consolation try in the 7^th minute of stoppage time.

DK are at home to Luton next Saturday in the 5^th round (last 16) of the Powergen Intermediate Cup.

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Saturday 17 December ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 28 - LUTON 11

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Nigel Francis, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Chris Condliffe, 3. Hona Kingi, 4.Ben Connett (Capt), 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Richard Port, 8. Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Ed Nicholls, 17.Shaun Griffiths, 18.Matt Ferguson.

In what was arguably their best home performance of the season DK gained their first “Double” against a talented Luton side currently lying fourth in the league table.  After being on the wrong end of a poor decision that cost them the game last week, DK bounced back in style with a tremendous performance from the whole team, to comprehensively outplay their southern visitors by four tries to one.  The Luton side were formidable opposition having won seven of their eleven previous league games.  Their four losses were against league leaders Rugby Lions, third placed Scunthorpe (where 2 late yellow cards cost them a game that they were winning easily) and fourth placed DK (twice).  They have recruited several experienced players and despite today’s result are expected to be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.  By contrast it was both interesting and satisfying to note that of the eighteen players in DK’s match squad; no less than ten had come up through the club’s Mini and Junior sections.

Hona Kingi (tight head) Richard Port (openside flank) and Tui Asi Pito (right wing) all returned to the DK side after injury.  Richard Port made a particularly triumphant return being named Coaches Man of the Match for a remarkable and tireless all round performance, all the more creditworthy considering he had been sidelined for a month with a neck injury.  His back row partners Ian Langford and Pete Knight were also in awesome form; Langy made an incredible number of tackles in the game and still managed to notch his ninth try of the season whilst Knighty created havoc with his powerful charges from the base of the scrum and relieved Luton of their possession on numerous occasions. Hona Kingi had a superb game until being rather harshly yellow carded late on and Tui Asi Pito was always a handful for Luton.  In the backs Alan Mitchell continues to improve and both  Gareth Davies and Ian Gowland were both highly impressive outside the half backs.

DK had the very powerful sunlight in their eyes for the first half that caused a few problems but in general they coped with it well.  They had the better of the opening exchanges with fine breaks from Ian Gowland and Gareth Davies causing concern for the visitors.  Simon Fletcher  was wide with a 15^th minute penalty attempt but good early pressure in the scrum with Wayne Millard prominent led to DK’s first try after 20 minutes.  Luton were penalised for collapsing a scrum and from the penalty DK caught and drove over the Luton line from a lineout where hooker Chris Condliffe was driven over for the try with Simon Fletcher converting for 7-0.  The rest of the half was very tight, the only other score a Luton penalty after half an hour kicked by fly half James Offer to make it 7-3 at the break.

                                      Half Time:   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  7   LUTON  3

DK piled on the pressure from the start and doubled their score on 45 minutes when a solid scrummage in the Luton 22 was followed up by an even better ruck from where Pete Knight emerged with the ball to feed Ian Langford, his strength and power on the burst saw him score an excellent try from 15m out.  Simon Fletcher again converted for 14-3.  DK have a few class players in their backs and two of them combined superbly to engineer their third and killer try after 58 minutes.  A loose pass from Luton on their 10m line was expertly snapped up by the ubiquitous Gareth Davies and moved quickly to Ian Gowland.  The timing was all important as the pacy Luton cover was swiftly closing in.  Gowland, taking the ball at pace and on a diagonal angle, shot through the gap and rounded the despairing fingertips of the last man to score a fine try at the posts.  Simon Fletcher’s conversion put DK 21-3 up with just over 20 minutes to go.

DK had Hona Kingi yellow carded on 64 minutes for a high tackle.  The prop had been having a very good game and the disruption allowed Luton a few more opportunities to attack.  Fly half James Offer reduced the arrears to 21-6 with a 66^th minute penalty but DK seemed to be coping comfortably with 14 men until a fine break from inside his own half by Luton left wing Mark Mansfield saw him elude four or five tacklers to score a very good individual try in the corner to make it 21-11 after 73 minutes.

Back to full strength, DK killed off any lingering Luton ambition with another outstanding try after 77 minutes.  Two tremendous drives through the middle with Tui Asi Pito’s momentum heading both of them ended with Tui powering over at the posts for an alternative version, individual try!  Simon Fletcher kicked his fourth conversion to end a very satisfactory afternoon for DK.

DK’s next league game is at Burton on Saturday January 7th KO 2pm.   The annual 2^nd XV fixture against Stourbridge is at Heathbrook on Boxing Day Monday 26^th December KO 11am.

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Saturday 10 December ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

SCUNTHORPE 30 - DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 25

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Nigel Francis, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Matt Ferguson, 4.Ben Connett (Capt), 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Scott Pugh, 8. Pete Knight.  Reps: 16.Adam Blackford, 17.Shaun Griffiths, 18.Tom Bissell.

This top of the table clash ended in controversy when the hosts snatched victory with a hotly disputed “try” in stoppage time.  Home fly half Tom Foster had kicked for the corner and Scunthorpe’s replacement back Rewiti Vaimoso was involved in a race for the touchdown with DK winger Nigel Francis.  Scunthorpe supporters on the line confirmed after the game that Nigel Francis had indeed touched the ball down first but the referee (from fully 35m behind the play) was adamant that a try had been scored! Up to then Mr Havery had officiated exceptionally well, and perhaps the official himself will no doubt later reflect on this decision at such a crucial stage of the game. 

Having said all that, this was a pretty dire performance from DK against limited, though fiercely committed opposition.  With the ball in hand DK looked a far better and more skilful side, the problem was, in a dreadful second half they had to play without the ball for long periods.  The loss of Scott Pugh to concussion at half time had a big impact but the bald truth is that the Scunthorpe pack showed far more “Dog” than the DK eight when the chips were down and DK, from a position of strength at 8-20 up with half an hour left will know that this was a game they lost rather than the opposition won, especially when they could easily have gone 13-27 up with twenty minutes left, but for a dropped scoring pass

DK fielded an unchanged side for the first time this season but after a reasonable first half, the front five fell away badly in the face of some dogged and determined Scunthorpe forward play.  The backs were incisive against a very vulnerable Scunthorpe back division, but did they didn’t get nearly enough decent ball.  Had they done so this would have been a comfortable victory rather than a narrow defeat.  Gareth Davies was named as Coaches Man of the Match for another hugely committed performance.  He did not deserve to be a loser.

DK looked much the sharper side in the early exchanges, a 40m break from Simon Fletcher on 6 minutes saw him hand on to Gareth Davies whose long pass out to Ian Gowland saw the winger turn his opposite number inside out to score the first try.  Simon Fletcher converted for 0-7.  He followed this with a 19^th minute penalty to give DK a 0-10 lead.  Though Scunthorpe skipper and full back Tim Robinson pulled three points back with a 28^th minute penalty, DK were generally in control.  A poor clearance kick after 34 mins put DK under pressure and a well worked catch and drive saw Scunthorpe scrum half Leon Parratt driven over from a rolling maul, making it 8-10. 

DK roared back with the best move of the game on 39 minutes when they surprised their hosts with a slick blindside move.  Alan Mitchell fed Andy McLellan on the burst and his pass to Ian Gowland again saw the winger see off the cover for a superb second DK try to make it 8-15 at the break.  Scott Pugh had to leave the field with concussion at this stage.  It was a major blow for DK as he had been prominent throughout for the visitors.

                                Half Time   SCUNTHORPE  8   DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD  15

DK went further ahead on 43 minutes when a Gareth Davies made a fine 30m break up the middle continued by Nigel Francis, from the ruck the DK pack picked up and dove over the home line, tight head Matt Ferguson touching down to make it 8-20.  With the game seemingly in the bag DK proceeded to self-destruct.  On 49 minutes DK lost their own lineout, crucially in their 22.  Scunthorpe set up another rolling maul from this and Steve Heath-Drury was driven over to make it 13-20.  Shortly afterwards Ian Gowland dropped what should have been a scoring pass from Gareth Davies and DK were to rue this missed opportunity as the home side piled on the pressure, finally finding space out left where wing Mark Sherwood crossed in the corner for 18-20 after 66 mins.

DK responded and a promising attack was ruined when Tom Weaver was penalised for a late tackle.  Scunthorpe tapped and ran, Anthony Carpenter taking the final pass to score, Tim Robinson converted to put the home side in the lead for the first time in the game at 25-20 after 70 minutes.  DK responded with another fine try on 74 minutes when a great break from Simon Fletcher split the home cover, Nigel Francis took the pass to score and make it 25-25.  Given that they had not played at all well DK would perhaps have been happy enough to settle for a point, but to lose in such controversial circumstances left a bitter taste.  Not to put too fine a point on it - We wuz robbed!

DK are at home to Luton (league) next Saturday KO 2pm.

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Saturday 3 December ~ POWERGEN MIDLANDS 1

DUDLEY KINGSWINFORD 33 WALSALL 8

Dudley Kingswinford: 15.Andy McLellan, 14.Nigel Francis, 13.Simon Fletcher, 12.Gareth Davies, 11. Ian Gowland, 10.Simon Fletcher, 9.Alan Mitchell, 1.Wayne Millard, 2.Adam Blackford, 3. Matt Ferguson, 4.Ben Connett (Capt), 5.Ollie Shakespeare, 6.Ian Langford, 7.Scott Pugh, 8. Pete Knight.