Old Hales claim derby spoils

The visitors came back from 8-0 down at the break to win 17-11.

Old Hales’ director of rugby Dan Grant was pleased with his side’s second-half response with tries from Kieran Haynes and Carl Robinson and the boot of Steve Powell sealing victory, writes Nick Elwell.

“We put a lot of pressure on them inside their 22 early on and were disappointed not to put any points on the board,” said Grant.

“Then they capitalised on one poor pass to score in the corner.

“We had a few conversations at half-time about what we need to do and we did it in the second half.”

Lions struck first when Elliot Hopkin chased the ball beyond the Old Hales’ chasing line, kicking the ball through before the covering tackle came in and George Tildesley dropped on the ball for the try.

Lions increased their advantage when Tom Mitchell stroked over a penalty on 25 minutes.

Old Hales’ cause wasn’t helped when were reduced to 14 men just before the half-time break.

But the visitors started the second half on the front foot and, despite being down a player, stunned the Lions with two quickfire converted tries from Haynes and Robinson.

Powell then gave them further breathing space when he landed a penalty.

With 10 minutes to go, the Lions pinned their close neighbours in their own 22, with wave-upon-wave of attacks and penalty kicks for the corner.

But the visiting defence stood firm, even when they were again reduced to 14, with Lions having to settle for a successful penalty to secure a losing bonus point.