Droitwich 39 - Dudley Kingswinford 2nd XV 8

Monday 5th September 2005

Droitwich kicked off the season with a friendly fixture against Powergen Midlands One side Dudley Kingswinford’s 2nd XV.

Droitwich started well, immediately shunting the visitors scrum. This solid platform led to a good supply of ball to the young Droitwich backs.

Matt Blackmore opened the scoring with a penalty, before Dudley replied with one of their own.

Droitwich were also winning good ball from the lineouts through Phil Horton and the improving Paul Sweeney. From such ball Jamie Faulkener made a good break up the wing to find Ben Cottrell and Horton in support, for veteran Jon Andrews to score.

The second half saw Droitwich up their work rate, and Cottrell made a break through the centre to feed Faulkener, who finished superbly. Faulkener made another stunning break to add his second shortly after.

Droitwich’s ever-green captain, Nick Godfrey, then scored after good driving work by tight forwards Matt Jupp and Jonno Watkins. Inevitably it was Faulkener who had the last word running in his hat-trick after a strong run from Ian Kilner.

Droitwich, all in all, turned in a very solid display, one that will set them in good heart for the forthcoming league fixtures. The Spa pack were strong and workman-like, allowing half backs Steve Poke and Matt Blackmore to exert some control on the game. The three quarters also looked dangerous on a number of occasions.

Tries: Jamie Faulkner (3), Ian Kilner, Nick Godfrey, Phil Horton.

Penalties: Matt Blackmore (1)

Conversions: Matt Blackmore (3)

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