This was a second victory in the preseason warm up games. Having beaten England Fire Service 41 – 0, it was a long journey to face a strong Regional 1 North, side Driffield.
It started in a similar way to the first game, with the opposition dominating possession and testing Derby’s defence for the first twenty minutes. This is one of Derby’s strength this year and that combined with their high level of fitness kept the bigger side out.
With some players missing, it was a great credit to the twenty-five-man squad in the way they just simply got on with the job. Their tackling format is now established, with the first man going low and the second bringing the player down to the ground, thus reducing the possibility of an offload.
Jake Barker had a torrid time at the back of a scrum under sustained pressure, but he managed to get ball back to his scrum half, Lockyer “Locky” Philips. He showed great awareness in scoring two tries and kept the backs moving. On the wing, Lewis Hancock also scored twice and late in the game Tom Bigland scored the winner. On great form, Josh Bingham converted all of them. His variations in play and kicking created attacks and gained territory.
Young Cameron Finlay replaced Philips towards the end. In his immediate impact, he showed great speed, courage and awareness. At just 18 years old, he is one for the future.
Final score: Driffield 31 Derby 35
No game next Saturday but Lichfield lie in wait on the following Saturday.
Report by: Gerry Sherry