With a 100% record this season the Druids, next opponents were Girlings, against whom their record in recent years has not been very good. Although the match was being played on Chippenham Mead, the most recent home result against Girlings in 2003 was a 36-24 loss. It is the norm for the Druids to have to make last minute changes to the team and for this challenge the situation was more of the same. On this occasion the forced changes were mainly up front where both props, one second row and one back row forward was filled by youngsters or inexperienced players in the particular position. The home side made a promising start, particularly at the line out where Andy Howells did his usual good work. The larger and robust Girlings packs were causing real problems for the Druids eight, as at the ruck and maul and their aggressive tactics were difficult to counter. The Druids drew first blood when from a crisp threequarter move Dan Wilkinson gave fellow centre Adam Roberts, a nicely timed pass, and he forced his way passed three would-be tacklers to touch down wide out. Wilkinson converted with a superbly judged kick to give the home side a 7-0 lead. Girlings hit back, and it was no surprise that it was their forwards who were behind the score. From a lineout they developed a maul, which resulted in a try being scored wide out. The conversion attempt failed but the deficit was cut to 2 points. The second half saw Girlings maintain their momentum and the youngsters in the home side fought bravely against the aggressive play of the visitors. This pressure had to tell and it was no surprise when Girlings scored another try again through their forwards. Once more the conversion failed but the try gave Girlings a three point lead. The Druids showed real determination and when the visitors were reduced to fourteen men when their full back was sent off for stamping on outstanding flanker Dion Hurinui, this only helped to further increase their efforts. But it was not to be, and the final whistle blew to give the Druids their first defeat of the season. This reverse does not reflect the spirit and fight the Druids put up. It was at the rucks where they lost ball from turnovers and this was significant. Behind the scrum Girlings offered little but up front that’s where the difference counted. Youngsters Phil Seabury, Leighton Rees and Chris Davies all deserve mention, as do Dion Hurinui and Adam Roberts.
|