Ives got back to winning ways with a victory based on an excellent defensive display in the mud. Played in torrential rain for the most part and on a pitch that dragged the most fleet-footed to a standstill by the end, it was a massive credit to both sides that they endeavoured to play running rugby. Mention of a superb refereeing display also as the arbiter played the conditions sympathetically.
With no exchanges made presumably to reduce the hosts’ cleaning duties, the ball quickly became caked in mud. The lottery of holding on to it then ensued.
Managed well from half back by Charlie Mandley and Mitch Newman, the Bulls started well, camping in Rugby’s half. The pack to a man offered itself up for driving runs, charging into the home playing.
When Rugby had opportunities, robust defence by the Bulls across the line stopped them in their tracks.
Unable to find a way through the stoic home defence, Ives applied more pressure and took the penalty chances as they arose, Mandley converting 4 from four before half time in a great display given the underfoot conditions.
With the half time score 12-0, the game was by no means over.
Ives made a dreadful start to the second half as the kick was allowed to bounce. Immediately on the back foot, a penalty in front was conceded to give Rugby hope.
The hosts were buoyed by the score and pounded the Ives defence. But the team spirit displayed by the Bulls shone through the gloom and they kept their try line intact.
An exchange of penalties meant the game was still close as it entered the final quarter.
Experience then showed up. The returning Ollie Bartlett took control of the base of the scrum, which was solid throughout. Charging runs upfield relieved the pressure.
Rugby began to wilt as the cold gnawed at chilled bones on all sides. Conceding penalties in their fatigue, Ives finally had a chance 5 metres out.
A quickly taken tap penalty was recycled and popped to the onrushing Paul Ashbridge to make the splashdown.
It was a deserved score to seal a fine victory.
DoR Duncan Williams was very happy. “Facing a side which has troubled all visitors and to come away with the victory is outstanding. Our defence was phenomenal throughout. I couldn’t be prouder of the boys.”