Stags All Stars (SAS) 12 Bedford Athletic 5

The SAS won by one goal and one try to one try. After the experiences of the previous weekend, the SAS put in a committed and determined defensive effort from the start. Bedford Ath making the most of their young legs were determined to spin the ball and had a plentiful supply of support runners so much of the first half was spent in the Stags half but the redoubtable SAS defence refused to yield. Stags one area of strength was the set piece where clean and good quality possession was frequently secured. However no sooner was the ball cleared than Bedford Ath attacked again. Eventually the sustained pressure told and after Stags gaveng away a number of penalties Bedford scored in the corner but failed to convert. In the second half tired legs and injuries weakened Bedford, so that Stags strong forward play started to dominate proceedings with some good mauls. After an unsuccessful shove from a 5m scrum, Stags won the ball from the ensuing defensive line out and drove their way to the line, with that evergreen work horse Spencer Burgess ensuring a clean touch down and levelling the score with the conversion missed. The depleted Bedford side were down to 12 men when one of their players was yellow carded so Stags spun the ball wide to unleash Jimmy Anderson who scored in the corner and Joe Costello in only his second game at fly half secured a fine conversion. Realising that Bedford Ath were so depleted, Stags skipper offered to shore up their chaotic scrum so the last ten minutes were evenly poised with Bedford threatening the Stags to the last, fortunately Stags defence despite giving away several penalties held out.