Burton ‘B’ XV travelled to Stafford hoping to continue their fine run of victories and did so with a solid, dominating performance to beat their hosts by 22-5. Once again it was Burton’s forwards who provided the base for the victory with a continuous supply of good ball for their backs to allow Joe Counter to show he’s growing in stature and ability with every game. Indeed it was Counter who started the scoring as he made a wonderful blind side break before rounding the fullback to touch down near the posts. Dave Ward converted to give Burton a 7-0 lead after fifteen minutes play.

But the hosts hit back when a fortunate bounce gifted them a try as the ball eluded the Burton defence and landed in the arms of their winger who dived over to score his sides only points. After this upset Burton never looked back and with Ben Stone and PJ Solomon creating havoc in the Stafford ranks more tries were sure to come.

Once again Martin ‘Sheep’ Bird led the way, perhaps having premonitions of a Welsh victory later, as he drove the Burton pack forward to totally dominate every set piece opportunity and produce limitless ball from the breakdowns. Old stagers John Collett and John Low plus newcomers Steve Bates and Liam Sharratt helped him. A scrum on the Stafford 22 saw Ian Fitzgerald pick up and race like a rampaging Rhino to the line to score Burton’s second try, while Ward added a penalty to give Burton a 15-5 lead at the break.

After the restart quick ball from a ruck saw Solomon slice through the opposition ranks with a beautiful side step as he raced forty metres to score Burton third try. Ward’s second conversion of the day sealed Burton’s victory at 22-5, and stretches the team’s unbeaten run to four games.