Stafford 26 – 21 St Leonards

Stafford 3rd XV should have entertained Uttoxeter in their latest merit league encounter. Uttoxeter, however, were unable to field a full team so Stafford were awarded the victory by default and another 4 points. Fortunately, a local fixture was able to be organised at short notice and what a game it was. A team of 1st and 2nds combined from St Leonards to make the short journey across town to take up the gauntlet against a Stafford 3rd XV who remained undefeated in the league. It gave the home team their toughest challenge of the season and offered to act as a benchmark of their current progression.

The game started at a blistering pace for the home team as from the kick-off, slick hands from the Stafford backs released Elliot Lawson to scythe his way through the Saints defence to score underneath the posts, the extra 2 points being added by Paul Hanson. Saints soon re-grouped and launched a few attacks of their own. The Stafford defence stood firm but the pressure finally resulted in a Saints try. The rest of the half remained close until the Stafford backs launched another creative attack which saw Payom Malakouti touch down underneath the posts, again the 2 points were added by Paul Hanson. Stafford went into half time leading 14 - 7 in a tightly contested game.

The second half was a reversal of the first, with the Saints team scoring in the opening minutes to draw the scores level. For the next 25 minutes, both teams looked to take the advantage but strong defence kept the scores level. With 15 minutes to go, a loose ball was kicked through by skipper Jonny Smith who chased it down to score near the posts, Paul Hanson maintaining his 100% record with the boot. Saints were not to be outdone, as they came straight back and scored to level the game once again. As the clock ticked down to full time it was looking like honours would be even. Stafford, though, had different ideas. After putting the Saints defence under consistent pressure, James Hegarty bulldozed his way over the try line to score. There was still time for Saints to pile on the pressure but a resolute Stafford defence repelled their attacks.