Good effort handicapped by injuries

Stafford 39 KC 31
This was a disappointing game to watch being an error strewn performance from both sides.
KC were first on the score sheet with a good move into the Stafford 22 and after a couple of phases with a forward skirmishes Henry Humphrey scored an unconverted try.
KC worked the ball back into the Stafford 22 and almost got over for a try; however the referee adjudged the close chance as held up. KC looked to have control at this point and pressure on the left-hand corner with the ball was whipped back across the field and passed from Ryan Tiene for Will Fallows to score a good try converted by Chris Pinner. KC were playing well, particularly in the forwards when getting a good push on in the set piece and competing in the lineout. Significant tackles as usual from Harvey Kelsall and Chris Pinner. The game was going backwards and forwards both sides making ground looking dangerous in attack. Stafford and KC opened up opportunities and managed to look as if they could make ground however errors crept into the game.
In a ten minute period in the latter part of the first half the game changed as Stafford scored three tries, two converted. KC came back with a good forwards drive and several phases in the forwards for Simon Clarke to get over for a converted try kicked by Chris Pinner. Simon’s overall contribution to the game justifiably earned him the man of the match award. The first half finished with the game level at 19 all.
Stafford scored another converted try early in the second half. Both sides were having chances which were not taken and when Stafford dropped the ball in mid-field Tom Kerrigan was able to collect and sprint to the line, Chris Pinner converting.
KC were suffering with injuries, several walking wounded doing their best but not able to fully contest. Stafford were able to get over for a couple more tries one converted . KC came back with a well worked move which was scored by Beau Archer - filling in on the wing due to his injury. In the last few minutes KC were throwing everything at the game trying to get back, unfortunately Stafford received a penalty which they kicked to win 39- 31.
KC came into this game with several players not available through injury and will be hoping that the series of injuries received in this game are not serious.

Bob Davies