Derby started 2023 looking to build on a fine 2022, but availability problems saw a number of changes from the previous game. Jake Roome moved to scrum half and Josh Harvey came in at prop. Josh Ridley started in the 2nd row and Jake Barker came into the back row with Jack Dawson returning at centre. Derby kicked off and
Derby were forced into a late change as Sam Pittman replaced Tom Antrobus, with Josh Ridley coming in on the bench. Derby kicked off, on a mild autumnal day and kept the ball through a number of phases, without really threatening. After 10 minutes, Kenilworth were 6 – 0 up thanks to 2 successful penalty kicks. Derby hit back, 2
In dry sunny conditions DKW were able to field a side strengthened by new recruits from Stourbridge, while Deby saw the return of Jeri Oldfield and Mc Grath Wyk. Young scrum half, Dan Harris, was promoted from the Second XV. It was to be a baptism by fire, because, behind a retreating scrum, life would have been hard for anybody.
Derby travelled to Syston, on Bonfire Night, expecting fireworks, against a team who had won 6 of their 8 games. Sam Tebbs led the team out to mark his 150th appearance for the side. Rhondell Stabana and Dave Cowell started in the forwards, with the back line remaining unchanged from the victory over Burton. Derby kicked off, playing with the
Jake Roome led the team out on his hundredth appearance for Derby to great applause from many past players who had mixed memories of facing Burton. Ryan Milton returned from injury to fullback and Patrick Burke started on the wing. At No. 10, Josh Bingham looked fresh and eager after his 3-game ban. Burton were favourites having beaten Syston and
Derby travelled to Finstall Park, for the first time since 2005, knowing a tough game lay in store. Derby had a new combination at half-back, with Josh Tizard at scrum half and Jack Partinton wearing 10. Derby kicked off, playing uphill, on a fine, dry day. 10 minutes later, Bromsgrove were 10 points ahead. A penalty was kicked, followed by
In what was to prove a very physical and brutal encounter, it was a much-changed starting team due to injuries and availability. The inevitable slight lack of cohesion was exploited by the visitors in creating an overlap after only four minutes, when left winger, Mathew Dight, touched down in the corner. Stand-Off, Tom Holloway did very well to convert. It
Derby travelled to Bridgnorth, knowing a tough task lay ahead. Jeri Oldfield and Sam Pittman returned to the side, while Lachie Phillips made his debut from the bench. Tom Antrobus ran out, in the sunshine, for his 50th appearance ! Derby started well and Josh Bingham kicked them into the lead, after 5 minutes. 15 minutes later, Derby scored the
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