Derby UKD kicked off the new season, away at South Leicester.  A miserable day, with a strong wind blowing across the pitch, meant conditions were more reminiscent of November than early September !

Derby UKD included 6 players making their debuts – Brett Beckham, Nick Coley, Kirk Ahsan, Robert Lucas, Martin Dodds and Craig Hughes.  Paul Worthington and Tim Lawson also played on their return to the club.

Derby UKD were beaten twice by South Leicester last season, losing by 15 points away, getting closer at home, the margin down to 6 points.

At half time it looked as if this trend would be comfortably maintained, with South Leicester 17 – 5 ahead.  2 tries, both converted and a penalty, had been scored by the hosts.  Alex Preece had scored Derby UKDs first try of the season, showing a poachers instinct when South Leicester presented him with a chance.

The forwards had struggled to cope in the first half.  The second half was a different tale – Derby UKD dominated and put the Midland 1 club under tremendous pressure.

A Brett Beckham penalty, was followed by the best try of the day, in fact an early contender for try of the season !

Derby UKD fly half Nick Coley received the ball in his own 22.  He chipped the ball over the South Leicester backs and ran through to retake possession.  His pass found Filini Mafi who sprinted clear.  He delayed his pass until full back Brett Beckham was clear.  Brett Beckham took the ball and touched down.  3 players and 2 passes had turned defence into a try !

Brett Beckham converted and kicked a penalty to give Derby UKD the lead.

A last ditch penalty gave South Leicester the win, but Derby UKD had certainly worried last season’s champions !

The league, starting with Mansfield next week, will clearly be a stiff task.  If Derby UKD can play like this a good season is in prospect !

Match Report by Richard Bambra