Derby RFC

Seniors 2010/11 Match Reports - 1st XV

All 1st XV Match Reports for the 2010/11 Season are within this page, scroll up / down to view them.

8th May'11: Mansfield 32 - 29 Derby (NLD Cup Final)

Mansfield, who had been promoted via a play off last week, started better, only being denied a try, after 2 minutes, by a foot in touch.

Derby took the lead with a Jim Wigglesworth penalty, after 15 minutes, before Mansfield kicked one of their own.

An outrageous dummy from Adam Wilson, split the Mansfield defence and allowed Ben Marlow to cut back inside to score. Jim Wigglesworth added the conversion.
Mansfield hit back with 2 converted tries of their own, before Derby tied the scores just before the break. Luke Willmott reacted quickest to a loose ball on The Mansfield line to score. Jim Wigglesworth again converted.

Half time and 17 all. All to play for !

Derby again took the lead 12 minutes into the scond half, when Phil Robinson scored, despite taking a huge hit on the line.

Mansfield again levelled, before Ben Marlow sprinted clear to score his 22nd try of the season. Darren Hersey added the conversion; the 6th successful kicker for Derby this season !

A yellow card for Joe Pass 6 minutes from time, led to a spell of Mansfield pressure. A series of penalties near the corner flag, led to thoughts of a try in the corner and a difficult conversion, but Mansfield cleverly moved infield to score. The conversion was good and a 29 -29 draw was clinched.

10 minutes each way was the extra time ration.

Despite plenty of drama, one Mansfield penalty proved to be the only score and Derby had failed to retain the cup.

Good luck to Mansfield next season in the league above !

Derby have had a fine season; Derbyshire Cup winners, NLD Cup runners up and 4th place in the league, having chased 2nd place all the way.

Derby have a very young side and they will have learnt a lot from this season. Hopefully the nucleus of the team will remain and 1 or 2 additions could turn this season’s near miss into promotion !

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra

30th April'11: Matlock 0 - 0 Derby (match abandoned after 62 mins due to an injury to the referee)

Due to the heavy backlog of matches postponed from the turn of the year it duly transpired that this particular and most late season re-arranged fixture was destined to be a somewhat of a damp squid, a non-nothing anti-climax to the dying finale of a season where the result would be of no real matter except to certain sad people of no fixed mental abode.

Bearing in mind the state of the union in this particular Midlands One East Division where all things of any consequence had already been decided, this then was a backwater of an event holding no particular importance apart from bragging rights between two of the three top teams in the county.

Due to a calf injury to the referee on 62 minutes the match was prematurely ended.

It was at this point in time, that Matlock had just broken away after an unfortunate decision against Derby’s bewildered ranks to score a try to put them a neck ahead somewhat against the run of play.

The afternoon being fine but being surprised by bouts of indiscriminate wind it was therefore no day for the relaxed wearing of the kilt. The wicked wind here always favours toward the railway bridge and if the boot ahead means the ball bounces end on end , then it is truly toward this underpass it often will traverse and so it was thus on 62 minutes that Matlock’s Henry Packard was in this downward channel to put the home side pluckily ahead 20 -18 at the time of the enforced end.

Earlier, Derby had taken the renowned Matlock front row to task (deep joy!) and pushed them gleefully off a defending scrummage enabling Derby centre Chris Meddings to score with ease. Minutes later, Jim Wigglesworth then carved through to score and further cement his blossoming spring-heeled promise. Nathan Burton had converted the first try and Jim Wigglesworth was to later bag two penalties after taking over kicking duties from the now injured Burton.

At the time of going to press, the result is still in some doubt. It is (a) a victory to Matlock (b) a 0 – 0 draw (c) the match is to be replayed? But who really cares? Let’s go play cricket.

Lazy match report by Paul Richardson

25th April'11: Derby 42 - 20 Ilkeston (Derbyshire Cup Final at Glossop RFC)

The Derby 2nd Team had earlier in the day convincingly triumphed 48 – 28 at Glossop, over fellow finalists Ilkeston 2nds in the Derbyshire 2nd Team Cup and many in the Derby camp were thinking “Yes please, we would settle for something similar in the Senior County Cup Final, ta very much!” and the desire duly developed on the pitch itself as Derby ran out 42 – 20 winners.

However, it had been Ilkeston who had first sparked into action and it was no surprise that after 10 minutes when they produced a kick and run through a flat-footed defence to enable their right wing to score easily under the posts with the nine converting.

Five minutes later and Derby’s back-row were caught half-asleep at a scrummage as Ilkeston’s scrumhalf darted away and the resulting pressure saw Derby’s winger, Darren Hersey, being sinbinned and Ilkeston kicked the penalty to draw 10 – 0 ahead. Oh dear.

On a bone-hard surface, Derby now needed to inject real hard forward work to get back into the game and a subsequent rolling maul over considerable yardage saw prop Simon Long touchdown to do just the job, amongst the rising dust under the posts. Nathan Burton converted and Derby were deservedly back into the match just three points down.

On 25 minutes Derby assumed control with a 12 – 10 lead after a try from Lee Miller preceded by honest graft from the hard-working Luke Willmott. Derby confirmed their grip on the day with a superb wingers try by Russ Westcott as he arched away over 45 yards to score in the corner.

Just before half-time, Ilkeston put over a penalty to bring them closer on 17 – 13.

However, Immediately after the re-start, it was virtually game over as in 5 minutes, Derby scored a further 10 points. Nathan Burton put over a penalty and after almost all XV in the Derby side had touched the ball, Lee Miller ran in unopposed to score his second try with Burton converting.

5 minutes later And it was game, set and match as Pete Wilcox and Owen West allowed Ed Hutchinson to calmly score 5 yards in and put Derby 32 – 13 ahead. An absolute gem of a conversion followed from Burton meaning a healthy 34 – 13 situation for a relaxed Derby XV now really enjoying the day. Minutes later, Burton slotted another 3 points after replacement scrumhalf Josh Tizard snaffled his opposite number, and Derby were 37 – 13 and Derby, in fact, now possibly too relaxed as Ilkeston deservedly scored through their excellent open-side flanker with the conversion bringing the score up to a more respectable 37 – 20.

Alas for the Elks, the Tigers were not yet done and on the stroke of time, Burton threw a wide ball out that went clickity-click yet further out West via West himself then Ben Marlowe for Westcott to nipperly evade the stretched defence to score in the corner and Derby thus retaining custody of The Derbyshire Cup.

A quick ‘Thank You’ to Glossop RFC who organised and ran such a brilliant day out for one and all.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

16th April'11: Derby 88 - 24 Wellingborough

9th April'11: Syston 19 - 08 Derby

Syston had been confirmed League champions the previous week; good luck to them in Midland 3 National.

Derby still had everything to play for, with a play off place still firmly within reach.

For Derby, Simon Long came into the side at prop, with Joe Pass dropping to the bench. Ed Hutchinson moved to fly half, allowing Jim Wigglesworth to come in at full back, with Nathan Burton starting on the bench.

It was Syston who kicked off on a glorious Spring day and Derby almost scored immediately. Ben Marlow reached for the interception and was just unable to gather the ball.

Derby did take the lead after 8 minutes, when a Jim Wigglesworth penalty bounced off the bar and over.

9 minutes later, the Derby forwards attacked the Syston line and after being stopped short twice, Sam Hobbs drove over to score.

Derby were starting to give away too many penalties and Lee Miller saw a yellow card, reducing Derby to 14 men.

Syston made Derby pay, with a well worked try after 30 minutes. The conversion narrowed the gap to 1 point.

Just before the break, good work from Mikey Robertson saw Russ Westcott sprint away to touch the ball down. Unfortunately, a raised flag due to a foot in touch , stopped the Derby celebrations.
At half time Derby were still leading 8 – 7.

Just into the second half, a fabulous run from Jim Wigglesworth saw him break clear, but unfortunately, unable to beat the last man.

2 Syston tries in 6 minutes proved to be the decisive move of the game.

Firstly, after 53 minutes, the Syston scrum half picked up and sprinted clear to score. The conversion followed.

Derby were then penalised near their own line and were then unable to stop a quick Syston tap and go.

Derby brought all 3 replacements on, to try and salvage something from the game, but it proved to be in vain.

For the second week running, Derby had given everything, but had come away disappointed. They were probably slightly unfortunate not to pick up a losing bonus point, but were unable to take those chances which came their way.

Wellingborough at home next week, but if Mansfield win and score 4 tries they will finish second.

Come on Paviors !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Syston Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

2nd April'11: Ilkeston 18 - 12 Derby

Derby made the short journey to The Stute to take on County rivals Ilkeston. Both teams are still chasing a play off place, so a tense, tight game was always likely; so it proved.

Derby kicked off, playing down the slope and with dry conditions underfoot.

Derby were under pressure almost immediately and it only took Ilkeston 7 minutes to take the lead. Derby conceded a penalty. Ilkeston kicked to the corner. The line out was taken and the Ilkeston forwards drove over the Derby line.

Ilkeston continued to press and won a penalty right in front of the Derby posts. The Derby support feared the worst. Backchat; penalty reversed !

Derby swept down the field. Nathan Burton and Ben Marlow were prominent before Darren Hersey made ground. His inside pass found Ben Marlow and he, in turn fed Phil Robinson, who touched down in the corner.

The rest of the half saw Ilkeston generally in the ascendancy, but just before the break, Derby had an excellent chance to score, with a 2 man overlap. Unfortunately, the pass went to ground and the chance was lost.

5 – 5 at half time, probably slightly flattered Derby as Ilkeston had looked the better side.
Derby made a strong start to the 2nd half , putting pressure on the Ilkeston line, but , crucially, were unable to turn possession into points.

It was a different story when Ilkeston attacked.

A penalty after 7 minutes gave them the lead. Ilkeston then forced a 5 metre scrum, kept the ball alive through a series of phases, before crossing the Derby line.

The conversion followed, taking Ilkeston 10 points clear.

Derby had a mountain to climb, but with 5 minutes remaining gave themselves a chance. As so often this season, it was Ben Marlow who burst through tackles to score. Nathan Burton then converted to put Derby back within 3 points.

Ilkeston’s fly half dropped a goal as the game neared its conclusion and the final whistle saw Derby trying to cross Ilkeston’s line, before losing the ball.

The final score probably reflected the game accurately. Ilkeston were the slightly better side and their bigger pack put Derby under pressure. Derby could not be faulted for commitment and spirit. Luke Willmott, in particular, gave everything to the cause.

The bonus point Derby secured, keeps them ahead of Ilkeston. Both sides, however, have been overtaken by Mansfield, who have moved into 2nd place. Derby still have a game in hand.

Next week is no easier, with a trip to league leaders, Syston.

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Ilkeston Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

26th Mar'11: Derby 49 - 24 Spalding

Derby kept their challenge for a playoff place on track, with their 9th win in succession. Seven times Derby crossed the Spalding line and despite Spalding’s never say die endeavours, ran out comfortable winners.
Derby took only 4 minutes to score. A line out was won, the pack settled and drove over the Spalding line. Joe Pass emerged with the ball.

Nathan Burton soon added a penalty, before Spalding lost influential flanker Harry Sharman to the sin bin. Derby forwards continued to exert pressure and this led to Russ Westcott to squeeze in, in the corner after 26 minutes. At 13 – 0 it seemed as though Derby were going to run away with the game, but Spalding hit back with a try from Chappell after 31 minutes.

Derby struck again 5 minutes later, when an inside pass from Ed Hutchinson allowed Ben Marlow to touch down. Nathan Burton converted.

Spalding again hit back, just before the break, when a tap penalty allowed Riddle to score.

This left the half time score 20 – 10 to Derby.

During the break, Derby replaced Ed Hutchinson with Jim Wigglesworth.

Almost immediately after the re-start, Nathan Burton increased Derby’s lead with a penalty.

Spalding again countered with a try. Captain Sharman was the scorer, with Hankingson adding the conversion which reduced the gap to 6 points. The gap stayed that way for 3 minutes !

A lovely break by Jim Wigglesworth, led to Luke Willmott stretching to score in the corner, after 49 minutes. 3 minutes later Derby kept the ball alive through a number of phases, before Owen West found himself in the clear to score. Nathan Burton added the conversion and Derby were 18 points clear.

A yellow card for Pete Wilcox, contributed to Derby not scoring again until the 70th minute. Russ Westcott took a clearing kick and ran it back. Ben Marlow carried the move on, allowing Darren Hersey to score. Nathan Burton was again successful with the conversion.

Derby played the final 10 minutes with 14 men; Phil Robinson the man in the sin bin this time.
Charlton crossed for Spalding with Hankingson converting.

It was Derby who completed the scoring. Ben Marlow picked off a Spalding pass, to touch down for the 18th time this season. Nathan Burton converted, for a match tally of 14 points.

With Ilkeston losing, Derby move above them into 2nd place, making next week’s trip to Ilkeston even more interesting !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Spalding Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

19th Mar'11: Derby 48 - 18 Dunstablians

Playing bottom club Dunstablians, Derby needed to ensure they maintained the high standard they had set in recent weeks and record a good win to take advantage of the games in hand they have over other teams near the top. They were off to a good start with a catch and drive from a line out resulting in a try for Simon Long after just 3 minutes, converted by Jim Wigglesworth, 7 – 0. But the good start was checked with a penalty from Dunstablians after 11 minutes. Bad habits were creeping in with too many needless penalties being conceded and a 4 on 1 opportunity being spurned.

After 21 minutes Owen West had to leave the pitch with a knee injury giving a 1st team debut to utility forward James Reid. Soon after the Dunstablians 2nd row was penalized and given a yellow card and from the penalty Derby kicked for touch, the line out was won and driven, ball moved out for Mikey Robertson to power through and score, Wigglesworth again converting, 14 – 3. 10 minutres later simple rugby with passes from Long, Robinson and Wigglesworth found space for winger Russ Westcott who sprinted in from 60 metres for a great try, 19 – 3.

As half time approached Derby’s indiscipline led to yellow cards for technical offences for Long and Joe Pass within a minute, meaning Derby had to play 9 minutes with 13 men. Dunstablians scored a penalty from one of these offences to make the half time score 19 – 6.

Dunstablians had an effective pick and drive game plan at the start of the second half which Derby manfully defended with their reduced team, but after perhaps 15 phases could not stop an almost inevitable try for the visitors at 45 minutes making the score 19 – 11 and they could sense a chance. Derby held on until they were back to 15 and almost immediately took advantage of a Dunstablians knock on with Russ Westcott again racing 40 metres for a try, 24 – 11. Minutes later as Derby began to exert pressure, a line out was won and driven, Willmott hung off on the blind side, took the pass, twisted out of the tackle to score, 29 – 11. As Derby continued a relative ‘purple patch’ another good break from Mikey Robertson resulted in a pass and try for Jim Wigglesworth which he converted to make the score 36 – 11 after 55 minutes.

The old indiscipline problem returned to Derby with more penalties, another yellow card for Reid, and Dunstablians took their opportunity again to pick and drive effectively for a 2nd try, converted to make the score 36 – 18. Derby regained authority when back to 15 players and scored a good try through a break by Ben Marlow, carried on by Phil Robinson, ball quickly re-cycled after the tackle allowing Russ Westcott to complete his hat-trick with Wigglesworth converting. Minutes later another simple backs moves put the speedy winger away again for his 4th try to make the score 48 – 18.

An ugly incident involving several players meant there was an unfortunate end to the game with further yellow cards for Willmott and a Dunstablians player plus a red card for the Dunstablians prop.

So, a bonus point was what was required and the team delivered this, although also a few points to work on!

Next up is Spalding, still smarting from losing in the last minute at their place a few weeks back, this being a double header for league and NLD Cup. Come on Derby.

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Dunstablians Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

12th Mar'11: Kettering 25 - 34 Derby

On a day when Derby celebrated 50 years of Colts’ rugby, it was one of the current Colts who shone for the first team. Jim Wigglesworth had made his debut on the wing. Today he was at full back. He scored a try, kicked a penalty and 3 conversions, for a total of 14 points. He even filled in at scrum half while Phil Robinson was in the sin bin!

Derby kicked off at Waverly Road, but it was Kettering who were first into their stride. Joe Daniels kicked 2 early penalties, before Jim Wigglesworth replied. Daniels then struck again, leaving Kettering 9 – 3 ahead after 30 minutes. Derby had not performed at this stage and had not helped themselves by giving away a string of penalties, losing Phil Robinson and Ben Marlow to the sin bin as well.

Derby roused themselves and with virtually their first visit to the Kettering 22, scored. A penalty was kicked to touch. Owen West took the line out, 5 metres from the Kettering line and the pack drove over. Lee Miller emerged with the ball and the try.

Daniels then kicked his 4th penalty, before Derby scored again. This time a 5 metre scrum provided the platform, after the ball had been held up over the Kettering line. The scrum was good and Derby drove forward, allowing Simon Long to score. Jim Wigglesworth converted and Derby were, perhaps slightly fortunately, ahead 15 – 12 at the break.

Derby started the second half on the attack and scored after 10 minutes. Owen West took a Kettering line out and the ball found Mikey Robertson, who smashed his way through the cover defence to score. Jim Wigglesworth converted.

Indiscipline continued to dog Derby and allowed Daniels to kick 2 more penalties.

With 10 minutes remaining, Derby were 22 – 18 ahead.

A break from Ben Marlow, led to Jim Wigglesworth carving through the Kettering defence to sore a try which he then converted.

5 minutes later, Derby made the game safe. Ben Marlowchipped through. Darren Hersey arrived at full pace, took the ball and sprinted clear to score.

Kettering had time to narrow the gap, when Malc Crooks scored under the posts. This allowed Daniels to convert and complete a match tally of 20 points.

The final whistle saw Derby achieve another bonus point victory and keep the chase for 2nd place very much on. On the evidence of the 2 Derby v Kettering games this season, it is hard to see why Kettering are not higher in the table !

Next week Dunstablians visit Haslams, for a rearranged game, giving Derby a chance to close the gap on Ilkeston in second place.

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra

5th Mar'11: Derby 25 - 15 Paviors Match Day Sponsor AMS (Advanced Maintenance Supplies)

On a dark, damp and drisslely day it was to be the Derby side that lifted the gloom with the bright sparks of dynamic rugby to out-think a bigger, heavier visiting pack. Twice when Paviors were able to deploy their scrummage muscle, they scored, albeit fortunately with a defending helping hand on the first occasion. Otherwise, the more fleet-footed Derby players moved the ball wisely from the claggy surface across the park to score four fine tries to with unexpected ease and bag a bonus point to boot.

This result may have ended Paviors chances of finishing second in the league whilst simultaneously lifting Derby’s own same ambition just a notch. Derby’s intent became obvious when after only five minutes they scored a truly team try. The backs had made ground along the line and back again for the forwards to pound at the Paviors heartland. Lee Miller splintered off the drive and found fellow flanker Sam Hobbs on hand to score, converted by Nathan Burton and Derby duly led 7 – 0.

Both sides entered a silly season of penalties and ill-discipline, one frustrating case of “Foot on Body” causing an online penalty and scoring opportunity for Derby being reversed. From yet another indiscretion, George Billam opened Paviors account with a long range penalty to make the score 7 – 3. Helpfully for Derby, this fine kick turned out to be his best as two easier efforts were to sail wide later in the half.

Halftime: Derby 7 Paviors 3 with Derby needing to remind themselves of coach McCartin’s midweek local press pre-match thoughts on the need to “keep discipline.” Derby hit the second half up and running and within five minutes a stolen scrum scuttling blind as scrumhalf Phil Robinson drew in the surprised cover for Darren Hersey to touch down diving in at the corner. 12 – 3. Four minutes later and the Derby pack were once again ensconced on the Paviors doorstep and Joe Pass was able to step over and record Derby’s third try. 17 – 3.

Now it was Derby that were delivering all the rugby football and the visitors looked flat-footed as the home side hunted down a fourth try that would surely put the result to bed. Instead, over-zealous play and a penalty for crossing allowed Paviors to re-group and for the first time in the half, launch into Derby territory. Another penalty (with Derby’s Lee Miller being yellow-carded) saw Paviors camped on Derby’s line. The backside of a defending messy scrum saw Ratcliffe react faster than anyone else to bring Paviors back into the contest at 17 – 8 with 28 minutes of the second half up.

Derby might have decided to sit back on their remaining lead and run down the clock, but, no, they go straight back at Paviors with a killer try on 32 minutes, initiated by enterprising counter-attacking running by full-back Ed Hutchinson who drilled deep into the Paviors rearguard and set up the quick ball deftly despatched infield to centre Mikey Robertson who then literally ploughed a straight furrow through the mud to stretch through a tackle and just make it to the line. 22 – 8. Two minutes later and Hutchinson put over a penalty kick and the gap became 25 - 8. The last word was with Paviors, however, as their hard-working scrummage was presented with a penalty try which Billam quickly drop-kicked to convert. Too late, mate, the whistle had gone, 25 – 15, and the day was Derby’s... although they know it might have been more but for bouts of indiscretion. But hey, the way they play, discipline can wait for another day... that one being next week away at Kettering.

Photographs from the game including pre match AMS Sponsorship Day photographs can be viewed in the Derby v Paviors Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

26th Feb'11: Derby 21 - 20 Syston

What a game !

Derby produced a determined and committed performance against the league leaders, never losing belief, despite going behind in injury time. On a wet pitch, which made handling difficult, Derby made 3 changes from the side which triumphed at Coalville. Adam Wilson and Phil Robinson returned, while Colt, Jim Wigglesworth came in for his debut, on the wing.

Derby started brightly and a Nathan Burton penalty gave them the lead after 5 minutes. Syston struck back 3 minutes later with a flowing move, which allowed Hewitt to touch down. A breathless first 10 minutes concluded with Nathan Burton kicking a penalty, giving Derby the lead again. The game swung to and fro with Derby surviving the loss of Joe Pass to the sin bin.

Derby finally made their pressure tell as the first half entered injury time. Lee Miller charged down a clearing Syston kick and the ball was recycled before Sam Hobbs forced his way over, supported by the rest of the pack. Derby went straight back on the attack and Adam Wilson charged through the Syston defence. Derby passed the ball wide and Jim Wigglesworth showed what a prospect he is, by beating the last defender and scoring.

Derby went into the break 16 – 5 ahead, but Syston had shown enough for the game to be far from over.

Sam Hobbs and Nathan Burton both failed to reappear for the second half.

Derby started the second half with a sweeping move, but no score resulted. It was then Syston’s turn to lose a player to the sin bin, but , as before, no advantage was taken. Only 15 minutes remained when Syston finally made their pressure tell. Hooker Coltman crossed and Smith converted. Syston were definitely on top now and 10 minutes were left when Francis dropped a goal, to narrow the lead to 1 point. Derby were hanging on now, the huge effort they had put in had caught up with them.

All looked up when Syston scored their 3rd try, Coles was the scorer, as the game entered injury time. Derby however, refused to yield !

8 minutes into injury time, deep in Syston territory, Derby knocked on. Syston kicked down field and Derby ran it back. Suddenly, Number 8, Luke Willmott was in the clear 20 meters from the Syston line. He charged on, drew the last man, passed inside, where prop Joe Pass was clear. Try and win ! Haslams erupted !

A tremendous game; Syston showed why they are top of the league and Derby showed that second place is not beyond them if they can play like this every week.
Paviors are the visitors to Haslams next week.

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Syston Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

19th Feb'11: Coalville 08 - 30 Derby

The weather seems to be reserving its worst for Saturdays at the moment. The rain had stopped by the time the teams ran out, but the ground was saturated, ensuring another mud festival was on the cards.

Derby welcomed back Luke Willmott to the side, while Nathan Burton moved off the bench, to start at fly half.

It was Derby, playing down the slope, who made the strongest start and in fact took the lead after only 2 minutes.

The forwards created the position and quick ball down the line enabled Ben Marlow to score his 16th try of the season. Nathan Burton added the conversion.

6 minutes later, Nathan Burton kicked a penalty to take the score into double figures.

Derby were dominating at this stage and an excellent break by Mikey Robertson led to the 2nd try, after 19 minutes. His pass found Darren Hersey, who sprinted clear to touchdown, in the corner.

The next 10 minutes saw the sides swap penalties, Coalville collecting 3 points first, before Nathan Burton responded for Derby.

4 minutes remained in the half, when Coalville lost a centre to the sin bin.

Derby made them pay 2 minutes later. The forwards again provided the platform, before the ball was released to the backs. Russ Westcott came in off his wing, to provide the extra man, took the ball and scored. Nathan Burton again added the conversion.

This left the half time score 25 – 3 in Derby’s favour.

It is probably best to draw a veil over the 2nd half. Coalville pressed strongly for the first 6 minutes, camping in the Derby 22. Lee Miller was sent to the sin bin, after the referee had issued a team warning. Coalville used the penalty to kick across the field. The winger caught the ball and passed inside. Try.

Derby responded on 60 minutes when Russ Westcott crossed for his 2nd try of the day.

Derby brought all their replacements on, including Lewis Thompson, another colt making his 1st team debut. It is very encouraging to see this progression of talent and long may it continue !

The longer the half went on, the more penalties both sides gave away, until the final whistle saw Derby gain a 5 point win.

Derby played well in the 1st half, the conditions probably won the second !

Syston and Paviors are the next two visitors to Haslams. Season defining games !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Coalville Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

12th Feb'11: Spalding 19 - 21 Derby

A lovely early Spring day greeted Derby after the long trip to Spalding, a stark contrast in the conditions from the previous week. Derby had one change in the starting line up from the previous week Joe Pass replacing the injured Simon Long at Prop. Colt Tom Taylor-Dawes joining Adam Glover on the bench.

Derby playing with a slight breeze at their back began well and controlled the opening exchanges, an early opportunity for Darren Hersey was smothered out by a frantic Spalding defence, it looked only a matter of time before Derby would get on the score sheet. Spalding however had different ideas, and seemingly buoyed by their performance against Paviors the previous week, had some good passages of play but couldn't find a way past a resolute Derby defence.

After a bright start the game entered a disjointed period with both sides deemed to be guilty of an array of offences the interpretation of which left the players and spectators frustrated and scratching their heads at times. Derby continued to press, Spalding continued to defend. From a Spalding infringement Chris Meddings kicked the penalty to break the deadlock. On 35 minutes a bemused Joe Pass was sent to the bin and this spurred Derby on, Eldon Atherton inches from the line was prevented from scoring what looked to be a certain try as Spalding were judged offside,with the half almost up, Captain Ed Hutchinson kicked into the corner, from the lineout the seven Derby forwards drove over the line, Ben Coombes claiming the try.

Half time 00 - 08

The second half was not ideal viewing for the faint hearted! Spalding came out fighting and pounced upon a Derby mistake, the ball was hacked up field Spalding regained possession and cleverly, switched play to score in the corner. Derby with their scrum lead by Ben Coombes and Joe Pass now dominating came back, forwards and backs combining pushed deep into the Spalding half, with the defence stretched Ben Marlow powered over the line.

Groundhog day? Derby pressing, another error, Spalding try! At 12-13 with 25mins to go the game was finely balanced, Chris Meddings and Adam Wilson were replaced by Nathan Burton and Colt Tom Taylor-Dawes entered the fray to make his debut.

Derby went back on the attack and having pinned Spalding in their 22 were awarded a 5m scrum, the dominant Derby scrum surged forward but without the ball which had somehow squirted out to be pounced upon by a surprised Spalding full back who raced away up field, Spalding scoring under the posts. At 19-13 Derby now faced a test of resolve.

Lead by the impressive Sam Hobbs and strong runs by debutant backrow Tom Taylor-Dawes Derby wrestled back some control, with the 'russian roulette' at the breakdown continuing it was Spalding who now lost a player to the bin, a break by Mikey Robertson allowed Nathan Burton to crash through and finish well in the corner, with the conversion attempt narrowly wide Derby were still behind.

With Pressure mounting Spalding lost a second player to the bin, Derby were unlucky not to score, the forwards won quick ball and Nathan Burton went up the touchline, kicked in field, the ball stopped tantalisingly just inches from the try line, Ben Marlow arriving ahead of the defenders surely just had to pick up and touchdown but was judged to have knocked on in scoring! Adam Glover replaced Lee Miller and Spalding with players returning from the bin entered the last 5 mins feeling it could be their day.

Derby pressed, Spalding clung on, from a quick penalty Tom Taylor-Dawes almost burst through. Camped in the Spalding 22 with time almost out Derby were awarded another penalty, up stepped Nathan Burton to coolly convert the kick to win the game 19-21.

Derby were well below par on the day but "it's better to win ugly, than to lose pretty" something on this evidence that this Derby side appear to have learned from last season and earlier this!

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Spalding Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Steve MacQueen
 

5th Feb'11: Derby 27 - 10 Newark

Match Day Sponsor Miller Homes

A strong cross wind and driving rain greeted the teams as they ran out at Haslams. Hardly ideal conditions for a colt to step up and make his debut at scrum half, but Josh Tizard showed he was made of the right stuff, with a composed performance at the base of the scrum.

It was Derby who began in the ascendency and after a missed penalty, took the lead, after 14 minutes.

A Mikey Robertson break split the Newark defence and allowed Ben Marlow to touch down.

11 minutes later, good work from Sam Hobbs, enabled Ed Hutchinson to touch down, under the posts, for his 5th try of the season.

On a horrible day for goal kicking. Chris Meddings converted the try.

Derby were dominant at this stage and increased their lead after 35 minutes. A penalty gave them a 5 metre scrum and they marched Newark back over their own line with Lee Miller, the number 8, touching down, on his return from injury, Newark hit back just before the break, when scrum half Clark touched down.

Half time saw Derby comfortably ahead, 17 – 5.

The bonus point for the 4th try was secured 5 minutes after the break. Mikey Robertson was again prominent and when Darren Hersey entered the line, it provided the space for Ben Marlow to sore his 2nd try of the afternoon and 14th of the season.

Shortly after this, Lee Miller was sent to the sin bin.

Despite being a man down Derby continued to press forward, unfortunately this led to Newark scoring ! 5 m from the Newark line, a chip through was charged down, gathered, and Cormack sprinted the length of the pitch to score.

Derby rang the changes from this point, allowing the bench some game time.

Newark had a good spell at this stage, but were unable to score.

Derby demonstrated that they had a greater cutting edge, when good work from Ben Marlow allowed Darren Hersey to score in the corner.

There was still time for Sam Hobbs to receive a yellow card, before the final whistle blew, leaving Derby as deserved winners.

Newark worked hard and never gave up, but Derby were always the more potent threat, as their 5 tries showed.

The long trip to Spalding awaits next week, as Derby aim to finish as high as possible; Syston and Ilkeston look to have the top 2 spots sorted, but you never know !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game including pre match Miller Homes Sponsorship Day photographs can be viewed in the Derby v Newark Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

22nd Jan'11: Derby 24 - 15 Bedford Athletic

The referee confessed post match that the go-ahead for the game had been a close run thing with the ground hard close to the surface. It proved to be a close run thing with the result as Derby needed to work hard to shake off a clinging and spirited Bedford Athletic.

There was to be outstanding performances from the returning Simon Long and Sam Hobbs plus the dancing feet of centre Ben Marlow, however, the standout contribution came from the return to form of fellow centre Mikey Robertson, who had his best match of the season to date with three unselfish assists that unlocked Bedford’s defence.

After only 7 minutes Robertson ran straight and true and straight through would be tacklers, to feed Marlow on his outside. An immediate change of angle committed two remaining defenders to overrun wide as Marlow gleefully grounded between the posts. Chris Meddings converted and Derby led 7 – 0. Flanker Sam Hobbs almost kick dribbled his way to the line to increase the lead on 12 minutes and it was being to look easy for the home side. However, Bedford’s first venture into Derby territory should have seen them opening their account but a poor final pass out to winger Will Quinn denied them. Moments later, on 18 minutes, Quinn with ball in hand made good the lapse with a weaving 40 yard run to score. The conversion was missed but Bed’s were now awake and Derby at 7 – 5 ahead craved another score to rest more easy. And so the forwards upped the work rate with robust pick-up-and-goes until on 22 minutes produced the first feisty encounter of the day. Derby had set up yet another promising position when an unpunished offside at a ruck, an unnoticed knee in the back of a Derby player in the dirt, and the very audible howls of the partisan side, resulted in Bedford’s open side being sin-binned together with Sam Hobbs his opposite number, the latter for presumingly not getting his retribution in first.

Bedford adjusted better and went ahead 7 – 8 with a Phil Read penalty. Ten minutes later on the brink of the break, Mikey Robertson’s brutal charge resulted in Marlow’s somewhat lucky try as he went over the hard way ignoring the overlap. Meddings converted and Derby were back in front 14 – 8 at halftime.

The pitch had by now given up its hardness and the claggy surface slowed the pace of the game suiting the Bedford back row and especially number eight Sam Richbell, although not too fleet of foot had bravely dug a retreating scrum out of many a muddy hole. The Bedford forwards took over territorially and with bemused Derby lock, Eldon Atherton, being sin-binned, Bedford deservedly took the lead once again with a try from Ross Austen. The kick hit a post and twisted over and Bedford had squeezed in front 14 – 15 having had all the possession for the half’s opening 15 minutes. Worsening pitch conditions, combined with Bedford closing down on their creaking centre channels of uncertainty meant that Derby now had to slog it out through forward close-play if they were to claw back the lead. And this they did allowing Robertson midway through the half, his opportunity to once again bulldog his way up to the line allowing fullback Chris Meddings to score. 19 – 15. Minutes before the whistle, Derby engineered a fourth try and bonus point with a rollicking try for the pack. From a 22 yard lineout the eight ploughed a path to the backsliding Bedford line where prop Simon Long touched down from under the heap of muddy men. Derby had weathered the brave Bedford storm to win 24 – 15.

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Bedford Athletic Photograph Gallery.

Match report by Paul Richardson

15th Jan'11: Mansfield 21 - 12 Derby

Derby travelled to Eakring Road, looking to build on a good second half performance against Leighton Buzzard.

A strong wind was always likely to make it difficult to play free flowing rugby and so it proved.

Derby lost Jon Heggie after just 6 minutes, with a dislocated finger. This allowed Richie Robinson to make his return to first team action after a long absence due to injury; he was probably hoping it wasn’t quite so early in the game !

The Mansfield pack pounded away, pick and drive was the order of the day, with only rare opportunities for the backs.

Derby were unable to mount any threat and Mansfield finally scored after 31 minutes. Derby were penalised at a scrum, 5 metres from their own line. A quick tap and dive over the line secured the try. The conversion followed and half time saw Derby 7 – 0 down.

Derby needed to up their game in the second half. Richard Sparkes was unable to continue after the break, so Adam Wilson joined the fray.
Playing down the slope and against the wind seemed to suit Derby and they were level after 10 minutes.

Derby kicked a penalty to touch, 15 metres from the Mansfield line. Luke Wilmott took the line-out and the Derby pack drove Mansfield back over their own line. Pete Wilcox emerged with the ball . Chris Meddings added the conversion.

Unfortunately, the lead did not last long, as missed tackles allowed Mansfield to cross the line for a converted try, 7 minutes later. Ed Worthington was injured in the build up to this try and was replaced by Nathan Burton.

The game had had a number of minor niggles and the referee lost patience and sent Adam Wilson and the Mansfield number 6 to the sin bin.

On 65 minutes, Derby were awarded a penalty. Phil Robinson took it quickly and found Darren Hersey. He made ground down the wing and his inside ball found Ben Marlow who touched down for his 10th try of the season.

Chris Meddings conversion attempt hit the post as did a penalty attempt from Nathan Burton 6 minutes later. Such are the margins of success and failure; Derby could have been 3 points up, but were 2 points down !

Mansfield confirmed the victory with a try in the 80th minute that was a carbon copy of the first. Penalty against Derby at the scrum, tap and go; try. The conversion took the losing bonus point away from Derby.

Derby worked hard, tackled well and could not be faulted for their commitment, but there is no doubt that the better side, on the day, won.

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Mansfield Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

8th Jan'11: Derby 24 - 08 Leighton Buzzard

It had been all of 50 dark days since these two teams had seen a rugby ball sans ice, and therefore it was perhaps understandable that errors would abound aplenty in the opening exchanges. Visitors Leighton Buzzard were first to shake off the effects of a long hibernation to pressurise a sleepy Derby XV onto the back foot.

Buzzards stand-off David rattled Derby and their cross-bar with a penalty attempt that almost resulted in a rebounding opening try, thwarted only by Derby’s desperate dogged defence. Against the run of play and after 10 minutes of rude awakening, Derby’s first incursion into Buzzards territory resulted in a penalty which Chris Meddings calmly slotted to sooth Derby’s nerves.

Buzzard enjoyed most of the ball but Derby had rallied enough to sneak over the halfway to present Meddings with his second successful penalty kick a quarter into the game. David responded with a monster kick to register Buzzards first points, but it was a Meddings hat-trick kick that led Derby into a halftime lead of 9 – 3.

Derby appeared after the break to be fully awake and began again looking refreshed and sprightly. Alas, a false awakening, as a dreamy pass out found its way into the hands of the surprised Buzzard backs with an embarrassing overlap afoot. What should have been an easy score was initially frustrated by Derby quickly tracking back and it took the captain and tighthead prop, Turney, to trundle over in the corner and score. At 9 – 8 Derby were looking dizzy and disquietedly vulnerable and the visitors could now smell blood. Another score here and Derby could well be down the plughole and lost.

Step forward a hero. As Buzzards launched another confident attack from just inside their own half, Luke Willmott, man of the match and Derby’s number eight, door-stopped the move in its tracks with an absolutely pulverising tackle that could be heard in the bar. The effect was to fire up the Derby forwards (and the spectators!) and especially hooker Pete Wilcox, who with a thunderous charge up to the Buzzards line, did the right thing by releasing a try-scoring pass to the unmarked Meddings. 14 – 8 after 20 minutes and Derby had now truly shaken off winter’s mantle. 5 minutes later and the game was up. Game Plan A – get the ball out wide darn quick – worked a treat as winger Russ Westcott streaked away and up to the bedazzled Buzzards line where he found Ed Hutchinson on his inside shoulder to score and increase Derby’s lead to 19 – 8.

Derby’s lineout had performed well all afternoon and from the last of the day, the Derby forwards drove on as an organised unit and clinically scored with a fired-up Ben Coombes coming up with ball in hand. 24 – 8 then as time then ran out to thwart Derby’s dream of a winning bonus point. It seemed that it had been the Buzzards plan to attack Derby off the lineout and thence work narrow, but this they were unable to execute. First of all, win lineout ball. When they did, Derby countered wide and that’s where the home side won it. Derby ended in overdrive with more gas still in the tank and Buzzards will need to finish as they started today if they are going to make a fist of the remaining season.

Post match thought of the day from Derby head-coach, Paul McCartin: “We were rusty early on but once the oil began to flow, we were really quite slick.” Groan...

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Leighton Buzzard Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

20th Nov'10: Derby 28 - 20 Kettering

Derby approached this match with a determination to wipe away the previous two losing results and re find the belief that makes them such a good side to watch when on a roll. Kettering are a composed side but even they must have been truly rattled by Derby’s opening onslaught. Within minutes their line had been inches short of being breached, first by Mikey Robertson followed by Ben Marlow. Derby’s forwards pressurised the visitor’s scrummage and from a free kick the backs sashayed left and right and after a robust run from prop Simon Long, Marlow stepped in to slice through under the posts to score. Chris Meddings converted and Derby led 7 – 0 after only 5 memorable minutes.

On 15 minutes came the try of the season so far. Kettering had weathered the storm and were now putting together good phases of play. Deep in defence Derby turned the ball over and Luke Wilmott found the pace to run parallel to the line away down the short side. On halfway he found waiting winger Darren Hersey on his shoulder who then really turned on the gas to arch in and score under the posts. Again Meddings confidently converted. 14 – 0. Skipper Phil Robinson pressurised the Kettering line resulting in a 5 yard attacking scrummage. A cheeky Derby dummy allowed Marlow’s angled run-in through a flat-footed defence to touchdown and on a rapid 25 minutes, with Meddings third conversion, Derby deservedly were well in front and seemingly untouchable at 21 – 0. Kettering, however, had been quietly putting their game back together with the big men in their forward ranks carrying the ball forward into a softening Derby’s midrift. A Derby scrummage was cleverly wheeled and Andy George, Kettering’s flyer was away. His forwards were not far behind and although Derby at first stopped the trundle it was no surprise when number 8 Haig duly scored. The last play of the half was a successful penalty by George and at the break the score was now 21 – 8. Alarm bells were now clanging away for the Derby faithful with the growing reality that Kettering were increasingly looking mean and menacing. Relief: Almost immediately after the re-start, openside John Heggie scored in the corner followed by a monster conversion by Meddings to extend Derby’s lead to a more calming 28 – 8.

Counter-attacking pressure by Kettering led to yet another Derby bout of yellow-card fever as Ben Coombes was sent to the bin an invitation for keen Kettering to turn the screw a notch further - and so it was that the growing presence of blindside Tom Poole purloined precious points to close the gap to 28 – 13. And with 12 minutes to go, the handy Andy George sped away to score and then converted his own try to make it 28 – 20 and Derby were hanging on.

From somewhere, Derby found the strength of character to not only hang on but to keep the increasingly frustrated Kettering avalanche at bay. The game was up and the game was Shrovetide Football... keep the ball deep in your pocket and wind the clock down on the day. Kettering persisted but Derby prevailed. Just.

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Kettering Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Paul Richardson

13th Nov'10: Paviors 29 - 17 Derby

A beautiful, sunny day greeted the players as they ran out at The Ron Rossin Ground.

It only took 3 minutes for Derby’s day to start to go wrong. A ruck formed and the ball moved away; unfortunately Owen West didn’t. He left the field with a shoulder injury to be replaced by Adam Wilson. The other forward replacement, Richard Sparkes had already got injured in the warm up, so Derby only had 1 replacement. Ed Worthington, for the next 78 minutes !

8 minutes gone and Chris Meddings kicked a penalty to open the scoring.

The next 15 minutes saw Paviors lay siege to the Derby line as the forwards pounded away. Eventually, the pressure told and a try was awarded.

Derby hit back immediately and a good move saw Kane Nixon held up over the Paviors try line.

On 29 minutes, Kane Nixon again crossed the Paviors line. This time, quick ball along the backs, allowing him to touch down for the try. A fine touchline conversion from Chris Meddings left Derby 10 – 5 ahead.

This was the half time score, with Derby perhaps slightly fortunate to be ahead.

The second half proved to be a bit of a struggle for Derby.

Paviors’ forwards started to take control and Derby’s cause was not helped by 2 yellow cards in quick succession. First to leave the field was Adam Glover, followed by Simon Long.

Derby showed sterling defence but eventually the pressure told on the pack and a converted penalty try was the result. Derby could have no complaints about the award and now had a mountain to climb.

Derby tried to keep the ball alive, to get back into the game, but it proved to be their undoing as Paviors twice picked up loose balls to run in unopposed tries. Both were converted and Paviors were out of sight.

The impressive Chris Medding improved the Derby supporters day with a strong run and try in the corner. He then converted, before the final whistle blew.

Paviors thoroughly deserved their win. There was no doubting Derby’s commitment and they defended very well, but ultimately that was not enough.

Derby need to get their season back on track against Kettering at Haslams next week.

Come on Derby!

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Paviors Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

30th Oct'10: Derby 22 - 27 Coalville

With Derby 2nd and Coalville 4th in the table, a close game was always likely; so it proved.

Injuries and unavailabilities forced Derby into a number of changes. Louis Gandalfo and Richard Sparkes started for the first time this season while Chris Meddings moved to scrum half. Dave Goodman, Elliot Spencer and John Lewis made up the bench, all for the 1st time this season.

Derby started brightly and took the lead after 8 minutes. Quick passing created the space for Louis Gandalfo to touch down in the corner.

This was the first of 3 tries in 8 minutes.

Coalville levelled after strong running from their backs, before Derby took the lead again when Chris Meddings made a break and then found Ed Worthington who touched down.

Derby were in control at this stage and increased their lead after 27 minutes when Kane Nixon showed impressive strength to spin and force his way over the line.

Derby kept pressing, but were unable to score again before the break, leaving the half time score as 15 – 5 to Derby.

Derby had played well but perhaps hadn’t made the most of their chances.

The first 20 minutes of the second half proved to be crucial. Coalville scored 3 tries in this period, to open a 24 – 15 lead.

The Coalville tries were good, direct running, excellent ball retention and good movement, but Derby contributed to their own downfall with missed tackles and an inability to catch or keep hold of the ball !

With 14 minutes left, Mikey Robertson intercepted a pass to score under the posts; Ed Worthington kicked the conversion.

7 minutes later, the Coalville full back kicked a penalty to complete the scoring.

Derby had their chances in the final 5 minutes. A series of scrums on the Coalville line and notably when Jon Heggie appeared to be held back as he was about to take a pass 5 metres out, in the clear.

In the end, the Coalville celebrations at the final whistle showed how important the win was to them, while Derby were left to reflect on what might have been.

The 2 points gained keep Derby in 2nd place. Ilkeston arrive at Haslams next week, for an NLD cup match, before the league campaign continues with a trip to Paviors.

You will note that there are no youtube links in this week’s match report – see Colin Cornfield if you require one!

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Coalville Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

23rd Oct'10: Newark 12 - 39 Derby

After a couple of shaky away performances recently Derby needed to turn the tide if they were going to remain in the group of front-runners in the league. This they did, and in style, with an emphatic win and polished all round performance at NLD rivals Newark.

A good start can be so important in a game so it was good to get points on the board early as Derby’s forwards won a line out and drove the ensuing maul 25 metres for a try, with Ben Coombes getting up smiling as the try scorer. Ed Hutchinson’s conversion attempt was just wide.

Owen West continued to be dominant in the line outs but at 12 minutes as Lee Miller broke away from a maul he twisted his ankle awkwardly and had to be replaced by Richard Sparkes. Maintaining the pressure on Newark, Derby were awarded a penalty which Ed Hutchinson slotted from 35 metres to make the score 8 – 0.

Not prepared to sit back and take it, Newark pushed upfield and applied several minutes of pressure which culminated in a try for stand off Chris Tate, converted to make it 8 – 7 after 22 minutes.

Derby pushed back upfield and after a series of forward drives were awarded a penalty which Ed Hutchinson converted, 11 – 7. Minutes later a Newark cross kick back-fired as it was gathered by Kane Nixon who sprinted 50 metres to out-strip the cover defence and score his first try for the club, with Ed Hutchinson kicking the difficult conversion, 18 - 7. To complete an ‘killer’ 10 minutes, after a good break by Ben Marlow, the hard-working Luke Willmott popped up on his shoulder to score under the posts, converted again, 25 – 7, half-time followed a few minutes later.

Now playing into the wind it was important that Derby started strongly and did not allow Newark back into the game. This they did, with good defence by backs and forwards. At 55 minutes Pete Wilcox received a yellow card for ‘coming in at the side’. Newark opted for the scrum in front of the posts so evergreen veteran Matt Bates had to come on for the scrum. Determined to scrummmage like he had been coaching the players to, with Adam Glover moving to hooker, Derby’s pack of 7 drove hard and disrupted the scrum and cleared their lines.

After 60 minutes Russ Westcott intercepted a stray pass on half way and ran for the corner to be tackled just short. A Newark player was yellow carded at this point, not sure why, Derby kept up the pressure but Newark held firm.

Shortly after this came the try of the game with great interplay between Ed Hutchinson and Mikey Robertson followed by Ed’s cross kick infield for, called for by Kane Nixon, who ran on to it, picked up and scored. For those of us of a certain age it brought back memories of a classic French try against England in 1991, started by Serge Blanco behind his own posts, continued by Sella and Camberambero and finished by St Andre. Maybe not quite the same, but for those of you not even born then or still wearing pampers or short trousers, make your own comparison on this link - www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyXlSvELtOM 

The conversion made the score 32 – 7 and a bonus point was secured. Newark were not finished though and scored their own try on 70 minutes to make the score 32 – 12 but Derby had more points to come as another line-out was won cleanly, Ed Hutchinson attacked and fed twinkle-toes Ben Marlow who danced through the Newark defence for a great individual try. Ed Hutchinson completed a good day with the boot with the conversion, 39 – 12.

Derby continued to impress in the final minutes and could easily have scored 2 more tries as first Ed Worthington made a break and his inside pass metres from the line was knocked on by Newark, then Ed Hutchinson made another break and his attempted pass to Ben Marlow was intercepted.

When the final whistle went, Derby’s fans and coaches were pleased with the performance, which set a standard that the players need to maintain in the coming weeks, starting with next week’s home game with early pace-setters Coalville.

Match Report by Colin Cornfield

16th Oct'10: Derby 20 - 17 Matlock

A slate grey sky greeted the players as they ran out at Haslams. Both teams were keen to win. As well as local bragging rights, Derby needed to keep up with the top of the table and Matlock were in a relegation spot.

It was Derby who were first into their stride. After a couple of missed penalties, which became the problem of the game, Mikey Robertson picked up the ball and strolled through the cover defence to score in the corner, after 11 minutes.

Matlock’s first visit into the Derby half provided Chris Young with a penalty opportunity and he duly narrowed the gap.

2 minutes later, Derby struck again. Luke Willmott fed Darren Hersey and he beat the last 2 defenders to touch down.

Derby had certainly had the majority of play at this stage, but that was about to change.

A yellow card for Luke Willmott after 35 minutes; the penalty is kicked into the corner. Catch, Drive, All 15 Matlock players join in and drive over the Derby line. James Young picks up the credit for scoring. Chris Young converts and Matlock are ahead 11 – 10 at half time.

8 minutes into the second half, Chris Young slots another penalty.

Derby are being dragged into a forward battle at this stage, but show what they can do in the next 10 minutes.

Quick ball allows the backs to work one way and then back the other, before Mikey Robertson finds Ben Marlow. He cuts back inside and touches down.

With Derby now putting pace on the ball they score again. Good phases of play again release Ben Marlow; he is stopped just short, but finds Simon Long, who crashes over from close range, for the 4th, bonus point, try!

17 minutes remain, when Chris Young smashes another penalty over, but it proved to be as close as Matlock get.

Derby almost scored again, but Mikey Robertson loses the ball in the act of scoring.

The final whistle blows and Derby have won both 5 league points and won in The Derbyshire Cup; the game being a double header !

Derby played some good rugby and should have won by more, but, it goes without saying, you can’t expect to have a comfortable day if you miss every kick at goal.

That problem needs to be sorted otherwise Derby will pay.

Newark away next week, before second place Coalville come to Haslams.

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Matlock Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

9th Oct'10: Bedford Athletic 16 - 15 Derby

Derby must be relieved that they do not have to visit Bedfordshire again this season!

They travelled to Putnoe Woods hoping for a better result and performance than the last away trip, to Leighton Buzzard.

Phil Robinson and Owen West returned to the Derby side. A shuffle in the backs saw Ben Marlow move to the wing, with Russ Westcott dropping to the bench.

Bedford kicked off and a dour struggle ensued.

Derby had the majority of the possession and spent a considerable amount of time in the Bedford half, but were unable to create any clear cut opportunities.

After 29 minutes, Bedford took the lead. The ball was driven towards the Derby line, with missed tackles contributing to the final touchdown.

5- 0 was the half time score. Derby would need to play with a lot more fluency and passion if they were to turn this around.

The first 10 minutes of the second half could not have gone much better !

Firstly, Lee Miller and Owen West combined to release Phil Robinson to score in the corner. 6 minutes later Darren Hersey burst clear. The ball was retained and the forwards drove over the line. Simon Long emerged with the ball. With Ed Hutchinson adding a conversion, Derby were looking good at 12 – 5 up.

Unfortunately, the momentum was not maintained and Bedford started to press.

Bedford narrowed the gap, after 64 minutes with a try from a lineout and took the lead with a drop goal 6 minutes later.

Derby looked to have sneaked a win when Ed Hutchinson kicked a penalty, with 3 minutes left, to put them 2 points ahead.

Bedford roused themselves and had 2 chances to win the game. They missed with a penalty attempt, but with the last play of the game they controlled the ball at the base of a ruck. The pass was good, the drop goal straight and true. The referee blew his whistle twice; once for the drop goal and immediately again for the end of the game.

Bedford were committed opponents, who tackled well, but Derby need to reflect on the fact that Syston beat Bedford 53 – 3 recently.

Rapid improvement is needed if promotion is to be a realistic aim. Next week at home to Matlock would be a good place to start !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Bedford Athletic v Derby Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

2nd Oct'10: Derby 26 - 07 Mansfield

Well that was better wasn’t it ?

After the disappointment of the performance, as well as the result, last week against Leighton Buzzard, Derby showed tremendous commitment to overcome a strong and determined Mansfield side.

Mansfield kicked off, but it was Derby who were quickly into their stride.

The first quarter of the game was all Derby. They probed for an opening but were unable to take the chances that came their way.

That changed in the 28th minute. Luke Willmott took the lineout and the ball reached Ed Hutchinson. He fed Mikey Robertson who burst through 2 tackles to score under the posts. Ed Hutchinson added the conversion.

Despite more Derby pressure, 7 – 0 proved to be the half time score. Both teams received a yellow card late in the half. Lee Miller for Derby, followed later by Simmons for Mansfield.

The Derby support were anxious at the break; for all their good play, would Derby regret not being further ahead.

The second half started well for Derby. Simon Long was held up over the Mansfield line, but from the resulting scrum, Derby scored. Ed Hutchinson again provided the key pass, enabling Darren Hersey to touch down. Ed Hutchinson added the extras.

Mansfield struck back immediately. They built phases for the first time in the game before winger Storey crossed for a try which L. Shaw converted.

The next 10 minutes belonged to Mansfield as they pinned Derby back inside their own 22 for long periods.

Derby defended well however and were equal to the task, before breaking away to score.

A break by Chris Meddings, playing impressively at scrum half, put Derby away. Mikey Robertson took the move on before sending Darren Hersey away, to touch down for his second try of the day.

At 19 – 7, Derby had the game won, but could they score the bonus point try ?

In the dying moments Kane Nixon fielded a Mansfield clearing kick and ran it back. Excellent passing between Darren Hersey and Mikey Robertson enabled Ben Marlow to force his way over the line for his 5th try of the season.

Ed Hutchinson’s 3rd conversion completed the scoring.

It was not the greatest game, but Derby deserved to win. The forwards put in a great shift, Adam Glover in particular making barnstorming runs and the backs showed that they are capable of scoring lovely tries.

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Mansfield Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

25th Sep'10: Leighton Buzzard 33 - 12 Derby

Derby have visited Leighton Buzzard 3 times in the past couple of seasons; it has rained, heavily, each time. Derby have been unbeaten on these visits !

Sun greeted the players as they ran out, perhaps it would have been better if it had been raining !

Derby had to make late changes in the front row by changing their props. Luke Wilmott and Joe Pass started, with Ben Coombes on the bench.

Leighton Buzzard kicked off, playing down the Wrights Meadow slope.

It was Leighton Buzzard who dominated the early possession, without really threatening. They missed with a penalty chance on 6 minutes, but the warning signs were there for Derby.

After 18 minutes Derby took the lead with a lovely try. The forwards won good ball and sent it down the line. Ben Marlow received the pass and showed impressive strength and determination to force his way over the line, for his 4th try of the season. Ed Worthington added the extras and Derby were 7 clear.

After 26 minutes Luke Wilmott went to the sin bin, reflecting a repeated team offence rather than an individual one.

On 30 minutes, Leighton Buzzard opened their account with a converted try.

The 2 minutes before half time proved to be key. Leighton Buzzard scored a converted try. Derby kicked off, regained the ball and were attacking. A kick through rebounded off Leighton Buzzard legs. Hack on, win the chase and another try made the half time score 19 – 7 to Leighton Buzzard.

Derby needed to play much better in the second half if they were to salvage anything from the game. This proved beyond them as they struggled to get any phases of play going.

Leighton Buzzard kicked 2 penalties to extend their lead, before Derby struck back. The ball went down the line and Chris Meddings touched down in the corner.

That was as good as it got for Derby. Another successful Leighton Buzzard penalty extended the lead before the coup de grace.

A Leighton Buzzard scrum. The outstanding Number 8 broke off and ran 25 metres without being touched for the 4th, bonus point, try.

The final score reflected a better performance from Leighton Buzzard than Derby.

The winning run comes to an end and in disappointing fashion.

Mansfield await next week, a better performance is required to overcome what is sure to be a stiff test.

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Leighton Buzzard v Derby Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

18th Sep'10: Derby 18 - 03 Ilkeston

A strange affair: Ilkeston took the field looking like they expected to be beaten and Derby almost sat back and said to themselves “Let’s see what you have got?” Which turned out to be not an awful lot as the home side man-managed the visitors resentence with unexpected ease.

From the pitchside one would normally expect a passionate encounter between these two local rivals, but it was surprisingly not to be, well, not until Derby’s two sparky centres, Ben ‘Marvellous Feet’ Marlow and Mikey ‘Let’s Roll’ Robertson broke Ilkeston hearts in the last quarter of the match.

It was not until Ilkeston’s organiser Woody Rudkin was sin-binned on 35 minutes than Derby’s dominance turned into points. Derby won an Elks lineout 15 metres out and the ball was moved smartly along the line to Marlow who committed the defence leaving Hutchinson to score under the posts. Worthington converted and at half-time Derby led 7 – 0. Not really enough considering this one-sided affair.

Connolly’s kicking out of Ilkeston’s well-organised defence was frustrating Derby’s quest to build on their lead, however, his attempts on goal were below par considering his normal authority in this regard. Connolly did eventually convert a penalty to bring the scores closer at 7 – 3 twelve minutes after the re-start, but it was to be the total sum effort of an Ilkeston revival. Derby had collectively lost concentration for a short spell but Ilkeston failed to take advantage even with the sin-binning of Derby’s Simon Long.

The game was entering the final quarter when the Derby duo of centres Robertson and Marlow began to take on and take apart Ilkeston in mid-field. Marlow’s twinking run almost put winger Hersey in at the corner. Then a typical Robertson thunder for the line resulted in a penalty which Worthington converted to extend Derby’s lead to 10 – 3 and soon to be 13 – 3 as the tightening Derby embrace squeezed the heart out of Ilkeston’s resistance.

With ten minutes to go the game was over as Robertson ploughed a direct furrow from 20 yards out to score his first try of the new season and although the conversion was missed Derby had processed a creditable 18 – 3 victory. Ilkeston finished the day running penalties into black & amber blind alleys as Derby’s defence ran down the clock.

Derby’s re-jigged back-row had a fine afternoon with Lee Miller improving yet again game on game. New boys, ex-colt Pass at prop and Nixon on the wing also fitted in nicely off the replacement bench and it was good to see flanker John Heggie back in the squad having not been seen on the field for a twelve month or more.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, etc.

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Derby v Ilkeston Photograph Gallery

Photographs from Vice Presidents Day can be viewed in the VP's Day Photograph Gallery

Match Report by Paul Richardson

11th Sep'10: Dunstablians 08 - 36 Derby

Derby continued their tour of the South Midlands with a visit to Bidwell Park, to take on Dunstablians. Derby named an unchanged team and were looking to build on the victory over Wellingborough last week.

Dunstablians kicked off and made the brighter start.

After 8 minutes Derby lost hooker Pete Wilcox to the sin bin.

Despite being a man down, Derby took the lead after 15 minutes. Russ Westcott almost scored in the corner, but knocked on stretching for the line. The Derby forwards took the resulting scrum against the head and Ed Worthington and Mikey Robertson combined to allow Ben Marlow to cross.

The rest of the half was a scrappy affair, with neither side taking control.

With 4 minutes left before the interval, Derby doubled their lead, with a fine individual try from Ed Hutchinson. He received the ball 35 metres from the try line and sprinted and dummied his way over.

The second half started in similar vein. Derby were struggling to find the fluency they had displayed last week, in the face of strong Dunstablians defence.

Everything then clicked into place and Derby scored 4 tries in 13 minutes.

The first of these arrived after 49 minutes. Mikey Robertson ran a clearing kick back and broke through. He found Ed Worthington who took the move on allowing Chris Meddings to score his first try for the club.

Phil Robinson then picked up a loose Dunstablians line out resulting in Ed Hutchinson scoring his second try of the day.

Phil Robinson created the next try as well. He picked the ball up from the base of the scrum and fed Russ Westcott on half way. Westcott sprinted clear, leaving defenders trailing in his wake, to touch down in the corner.

The burst ended in the 62nd minute, with the 4th try. Simon Long picked the ball up 20 metres from the line and showed impressive strength and pace to score under the posts.

Chris Meddings converted 3 of the tries, with Dunstablians kicking a penalty during the same 13 minutes.

This left Derby home and dry, 36 – 3 to the good.

Dunstablians scored a try with the final play of the game, leaving Derby with another 5 points in the league table – 4 for the win and 1 for scoring more than 4 tries.

2 long trips and 2 fine wins. Ilkeston at home next Saturday on Vice Presidents’ Day gives Derby the chance to show the Haslams faithful what they can do !

Come on Derby !

Photographs from the game can be viewed in the Dunstablians v Derby Photograph Gallery.

Match Report by Richard Bambra

4th Sep'10: Wellingborough 17 - 44 Derby

Derby swept Wellingborough aside, scoring 7 tries as they opened their Midland 1 East campaign.

A much changed Derby line up saw 7 debuts as well as the return of Ben Coombes, who missed the whole of last season with an injury.

It was Wellingborough who kicked off, but Derby, playing down the slope, were soon exerting pressure.

The first try arrived after 10 minutes when new number 8, Luke Wilmott picked up from a scrum near the Wellingborough line and fed scrum half Phil Robinson who touched down.

6 minutes later Wellingborough were level when they capitalised on a loose ball to score in the corner.

A good run from Simon Long gave Ben Marlow the chance to touch down in the corner and regain the lead for Derby after 19 minutes.

Fly half Ed Hutchinson kicked a penalty 5 minutes later to extend the lead.

On the half hour, Ed Hutchinson took a quick tap penalty and strong runs from centres Mikey Robertson and Chris Meddings gave Lee Miller the chance to score under the posts. Ed Hutchinson converted and the half time score saw Derby 20 – 5 to the good.

Derby made an excellent start to the second half when winger Russ Westcott picked up a ball 35 metres out and sprinted clear to touch down in the corner.

After 56 minutes, Wellingborough failed to control their line out ball and Adam Glover fed Simon Long 20 metres out. He was stopped just short of the line, but Luke Willmott took the ball to score. Ed Hutchinson’s conversion put Derby 27 points clear at 32 – 5.

Wellingborough hit back to score 2 tries of their own in the next 7 minutes, but in-between these, more excellent play from the Derby backs allowed Ben Marlow to score his second try of the day.

A yellow card for Derby replacement, Sam Johnson saw Derby having to play for 10 minutes with 14 men, but Wellingborough were unable to add to their tally. In fact it was Derby who had the last word with Phil Robinson touching down and Ed Hutchinson converting.

A promising start for Derby, particularly given that they won by 15 points here at Cut Throat Lane last season.

Another long trip awaits next week, this time to Dunstablians, before the first home game of the season the following week, against Ilkeston.

Come on Derby !

Match Report by Richard Bambra