November 11th 2007

Game 1:  Burton 7: Sandbach 7

From the start Burton knew they were in a game that was not going to be easy with the Sandbach pack dominating the scrums and playing an effective rucking game.However this was equally matched by the Burton back line being ferocious in the tackle and despite Sandbach having plenty ball they were unable to create any real threat.Against the run of play Ben Ward in his usual burrowing fashion piled over the line to score.In the second half the Burton forwards realising they were in a tough game raised their efforts and set about matching the back line in some tough tackling.Despite all efforts Sandbach pulled back a try and conversion to level the score.Overall this was a highly competitive match but demonstrated Burton’s ability to tough it out.

Game 2:  Burton 17: Wolverhampton 7

Aware of the Sandbach strength up front,Burton fielded a changed line up for the second game.The pack were determined not to be pushed around for this game and started to get even in the scrums and in the loose with a more robust approach to rucking.This resulted in more attacking opportunities and the back line were able to capitilise with three tries being scored.The first coming from Dan Shaw using his pace to outstrip the defence with blistering pace.The second came from an an equisite interception from Elliot Minns in the inside centre position from a Sandbach attack to run in an score with the defence in his wake.The third try came from the speedster Shaw again demonstrating his pace in getting round the defence.Sandbach never gave in and scored a solitary try through some determined running from their fly-half to score in the corner despite the best efforts of the Burton cover defence.

Overall both games were an excellent spectacle of rugby played in the true spirit of the game.