Park weather the conditions

The proverbial game of two halves this time related more to the weather than the rugby. More than one St. Ives player had dashed to the ground having touched down from holidays in the sun, only to find themselves fording lakes to reach the changing rooms. Used to playing in such sticky conditions at home, the Bulls chose to play with the wind and the tide in the first half.
Starting well, with the first scrum of many leading to a tremendous forwards surge, Ives quickly won a penalty. From long out and in difficult kicking conditions, the chance slipped past the post.
The game was being evenly contested, but both teams were struggling for continuity with the ball frequently spilled.
Stockwood’s first try set the tone of the first half. Ives were building momentum through both forwards and three quarters, lost the ball in the ruck and Stockwood’s backs reacted quickest. Good close passing defeated the scrambling Ives defence. The try went unconverted.
The only difference in tries two and three was the position on the field at which the turnover occurred. Ives building momentum, ball lost on the ground, Stockwood counter attack and score.
Half time 0-15
As the teams took their break, the weather turned. The wind persisted, but the rain was replaced by a dazzling autumn sun. Directly in the faces of the Bulls. Local knowledge would come into play as Stockwood made decent use of relieving kicks towards the blinded Ives back 3.
Whilst the tries continued for Stockwood with three more in the half, Ives could be content that the pattern of play totally altered. Even when down to 14 men through injuries, Ives attacked with purpose and much better support. Michael Wright in particular demonstrated the never-say-die attitude of the Ives pack, taking frequent tap and go opportunities to forge upfield as Stockwood offended.
The Bulls were unable to breach the Stockwood defence, despite many forays against the elements. Stockwood used those elements to gain territory and the tiring Bulls succumbed to a good direct run, a pushover try and another rolling maul before both sides were able to peel off their sodden attire.
Coach Brown remarked, “Despite the concession of more scores in the 2nd half, the performance was much improved and augurs well for next week’s local derby. Which will undoubtedly be played out in similar conditions, so we’ve had good practice for it.”