Anselmians 80 Derby 7
It was billed as a “Mission Impossible” as Derby ran out against promotion chasing Anselmians. Fred Chell made a welcome return after a long absence,but it only took the home side two minutes to record a pushover try by prop, Sanders. Predictably, it was quickly followed by another pushover try, this time by hooker, Dodd, Woods converted both.
It gave them momentum and confidence, but Derby did try to make things more difficult for them. However, winger, Cotgrave crossed in the corner for an unconverted try to give Anselmians a 19-point lead. Three minutes later the Derby Injury curse stuck again as centre, Andrew Fletcher, was stretchered off with a severe hamstring problem and was replaced by David Cowell at No.8. Before the break, Anselmians scored another 3 tries, all of which Woods converted to give them a forty-point lead.
Obviously briefed at the interval, Derby adopted the pick and go approach with David Cowell leading the way from the back of the scrum. Nathan Bevan-Brown and the two Wallis brothers, Angus and Robert played their part. The home side defense stood firm, but the bounce of the ball brought a try for Tom Bigland who was up close in support. Lewis Hancock converted to get Derby on the scoreboard. Anselmians added another four tries and Woods converted three of them to consolidate their challenge for promotion.
Derby players tried hard and never gave up, winning plaudits from the opposition, all well deserved. With Josh Bingham and Jeri Oldfield returning for the final game against Long Eaton, it should be a great showdown. Who knows what can be achieved in front Derby supporters?
It is on Sat 11th April, at home, Kick-off at 3.00 p.m., be there and make a difference.
Gerry Sherry
