Having already played two high scoring matches during the league season, spectators were thrilled with another glut of tries between these two attacking teams. The wind was a blustery nuisance throughout the game, but both sides endeavoured to move the ball though the hands at every opportunity.
Playing with the elements in the first half, Ives oddly conceded the first score after giving up territory through misdemeanours.
As the game entered its second quarter, the Bulls let rip. Ben Fleming benefited from a cute grubber through by Cullan Smy.
Excellent handling and line breaks by Jack Hickman and Paul Ashbridge led to scores for Albiee Tayedzerwa and two for Oliver Giglio.
As the half was coming to a close another grubber by Smy, this time for Ollie Bartlett to pounce was swiftly followed by a powerful 5-metre scrum, leading to Giglio’s hattrick try.
With all 6 tries converted by Charlie Mandley, the Bulls turned round 42-7 to the good.
Casuals began to take advantage of the strong wind to keep Ives in their own half for long spells. An aimless chip turned to gold as a wicked bounce took the ball into the arms of a visitor to score.
Keeping the ball in hand, Ives made swift ground in response, with Matt Millar dotting down in the corner.
With the result beyond doubt, the Bulls emptied the bench, including a 1st XV debut for youngster Sam Gledson.
However, it was another break by evergreen Ashbridge that brought Bartlett’s second.
So far ahead, Ives may forgive themselves for taking their collective foot off the gas. Casuals were determined to leave the pitch in a positive manner and scored three tries as the home defence got lackadaisical.
In between, Fleming showed a fine pair of heels for his own second score, Ives ultimately scoring 9 of the fourteen tries scored.
The squad learned post-match that they will face Coalville at the Chicken Shack on Saturday 10th May. Kick off 3pm and all are welcome.