DOVER 4th XV (15) V (25) DEAL&BETTES 4th XV
Due to injuries, work commitments and holidays Dover struggled to muster a full side in all positions. This gave skipper of the day Chris Bowman a difficult task in deciding who to play in what position. This was resolved by Craig Collins, Ryan Gaughran, Jo Parks and Gareth Speakman all playing out of position.
The front row was bolstered by the welcome return of props Ross Jennings and Matt Revitt who ensured that Dover had a solid front 5. Dover introduced a new scrum half Kane Mercer who despite lack of match practice and size showed true potential
Deal/Betteshanger had their usual strong squad of experienced and wily ex first team players who showed no fear when running and tackling the opposition but this was more than matched by the ferocity of the tackling by Dover with forwards Jennings, McKenzie and Gaughran putting in big hits but not to be outmatched three quarters Bowman, and Sampson showed to be fearless in stopping the big opposition
Deal/Betteshanger ran the ball at every opportunity and despite strong tackling they scored the first un-converted try, closely followed by a penalty when Dover were adjudged to be killing the ball. A momentary lapse of concentration saw Deal’s fullback breach the Dover line to score a converted try.
Dover’s response was a well struck penalty from Chris Bowman, the pack began to settle under the strong leadership of Pack leader Paddy McAdam and produced quality ball releasing winger Clive Munns who rounded the Deal fullback to score a well deserved unconverted try.
Dover were really fired up for the whole second half taking the game to the opposition, and despite a strong Deal defence Dover’s young Chris Franks from the wing made a scorching run to score a well deserved converted try. In the later stages of the game as fatigue began to take its toll, Dover conceded a final try to a Deal rolling maul.
A great all round effort from a hastily constructed team which bodes well for future games.
reported by Gareth Jones
