Leek 25 Derby 19
Charlie Barker ran out for his first appearance after a long lay off when he suffered a leg break against Long Eaton last season. He also recovered from a ligament strain recently. Congratulations to him and his resilience. However, In front of a large home support, Leek, won more possession in the first half and managed to retain that precious possession for longer periods than Derby. Only Derby’s relentless tackling, including several impact double hits, denied Leek more scores.
Centre, Will Mortimer, kicked a very early penalty to give Leek the lead. But, following a great charge-down by Cameron Finlay, a Leek drop out was caught be captain Sam Tebbs. His solo effort resulted in a try, converted by Josh Binghan to give Derby a slight lead. It didn’t last long, as Leek replied with a pushover try, touched down by prop, Joe Newton-Taylor. Midwinter converted to regain their lead. Just before the interval the Derby pack executed a driving maul of their own for Jeri Oldfield to touch down. This gave Derby a two points lead at the break with a score line of Leek 10 and Derby 12.
Two minutes after the restart, a key player, Josh Bingham, was given a Yellow Card. Just before the Sin Bin time ended, Midwinter crossed for an easy try which he also converted. Following a Yellow Card for Leek hooker, Cheadle, another break by Sam Tebbs brought him his second try and Josh Bingham added the conversion to narrow the gap to three points. A tentative effort of a Leek drop goal by fly-half, Scott Rawlings, bounced on the cross bar and went over to break Derby hearts. A late surge looked as if it might provide a late winner, when play moved to a Derby lineout 5-metres from the Leek try line. Sadly, the Leek jumper was lifted high to steal the ball and dash Derby hopes. It was another one that got away but Derby took one valuable point away with them for the score difference. They showed great spirit and Sam Tebbs lead by example. The next game is ; at home to Manchester on the 22nd Nov. Do come and lend your much needed support.
Gerry Sherry
