Kearsney beat St Charles 36-7
Kearsney hosted St Charles after an absence of this fixture for two years, and both teams should be commended on their commitment and tenacious defence on the day.
Kearsney started well and soon took the lead with a Jordan Bamber penalty. From the receiving kick-off the hosts were slightly overeager and St Charles were allowed to attack, spending some time in the Kearsney half. The home team defended well and forced their way back into the visitors’ half.
Fullback Derick Marshall capitalised on sustained pressure and good inter-play by the forwards and backs to score a try which Bamber converted. Marshall scored again from a good solo run of 60 metres, weaving through the defence and showing some good pace. Bamber converted again for a 17-nil lead which stretched to half-time.
St Charles started the second half with a more determined attack, but was kept at bay with solid defence by the home team. Eventually Kearsney took control with a pick-and-go try by prop Brad Taylor.
Kearsney started to dominate, although the visitors did enjoy a period of play in the Kearsney 22. They were awarded a penalty try from a lineout maul which were their only points of the match. By now the hosts led 22-7. Marshall scored his third try of the match after some good handling by the backs, for Bamber to convert.
Bamber scored the last try from a counter attack when he received a pass from centre Connor de Bruyn who did some good work and in the process drew many defenders. Bamber converted for a final score of 36-7.
Outstanding players for the home team were Derick Marshall, Brad Taylor, Aaron Smith, Reid Stuart and Connor de Bruyn.
From Sue Miles of Working Words
Photograph: Tracey van den Aardweg
