Derby UKD slumped to a disappointing defeat at Matlock on Saturday. On a day when Cromford Meadows showed why it is one of the most picturesque grounds in the area, Derby UKD kicked off and were immediately under pressure.

Perhaps the players were distracted, by the beauty of the scenery, but the Matlock pack drove over the Derby line after only 3 minutes, for a try that Young converted. 4 minutes later, things got worse, when the Matlock winger skipped clear to score. Derby UKD were in trouble, 12 – 0 after only 7 minutes, but no response was forthcoming, in fact Matlock continued to press. 7 minutes remained in the half, when Matlock extended their lead with a Young penalty.

Half time saw Matlock clear by 15 points and the Derby UKD supporters struggling to recall a worse half from their team. Derby UKD had hardly entered the Matlock 22 and when they did, it was because they had kicked off after conceding a score.

Nick Southern replaced Harry Roberts during the break. The second half, saw Derby UKD have their first shot at goal, but Brett Beckham was just short with a long range penalty. Derby UKD finally got into their stride and 2 tries in 2 minutes, from Brett Beckham and Simon Rolfs, both converted by Brett Beckham, narrowed the gap to 1 point and left Derby UKD with 30 minutes to score.

Derby UKD were certainly in the ascendancy at this stage, but despite pressing they were unable to conjure up another try. It seemed that that wouldn’t matter, when Brett Beckham bounced a penalty on the bar and over with 6 minutes left, to take the lead for the first time. Matlock had other ideas.  They attacked for the first time in the half, and from a line out, sliced through the defence to score. Young converted and the game was up.

Matlock thoroughly deserved their success, showing impressive spirit to bounce back from a 50 point defeat the previous week. Derby UKD were poor and unable to raise their game when the situation demanded action.  Tackles were missed, the ball was thrown away, the line out didn’t function, the ball was kicked straight to Matlock players, amongst other problems.

Hopefully this will spur Derby UKD into action. Saturday, against Hinckley would be a good place to start. Come on Derby UKD. 

Match Report by Richard Bambra