COBRA 5

RUTHIN 13

SUPPORTERS of Ruthin travelled hopeful of an improved performance as the Blues tackled COBRA in Division One (North).

When they arrived, the fans were rewarded with a much better display. Although there was standing water on surrounding fields, there was none on the pitch, although the going was definitely very soft so a low-scoring game was expected.

Ruthin kicked off with a grubber hoping for COBRA to knock it forward.

Following some good approach work, Ruthin were awarded a penalty in front of the posts, which Nathan Jones kicked with ease.

The game then alternated between either end of the pitch, mostly between the 22s.

That is until the Ruthin wing kicked long down the touchline which his opposite number was forced to take into touch on the five-metre line.

From the resulting lineout, Ruthin put the pressure on with a series of drives and scrums.

Eventually, Robat Lewis touched down and Nathan Jones was again successful with the kick.

In the remaining 10 minutes of the half, COBRA were pressing near the Ruthin line, but a good take allowed the Blues to clear the danger, leaving the scoreline 10-0 in their favour at the break.

Turning to the second half and COBRA put together their most threatening pressure of the game, but stout Ruthin tackling kept them out.

This often forced the home players backwards and Ruthin were also able to make a few breaks.

COBRA's pressure did eventually pay off when they touched down not too far from the posts, but they were unable to convert.

Harri Morgan made a great break down the left hand touchline only to be adjudged to be held up over the line with Ruthin getting the put-in at a scrum five metres out.

After the set piece, Ruthin were awarded a penalty under the posts that Nathan Jones duly kicked.

COBRA tried hard to take back a score in the remaining six minutes, but they were thwarted by more stout Ruthin defence and the game finished with a workmanlike victory for the visitors.