Disappointing Afternoon in the mud

Buxton Thirds 0 Knutsford 22

Buxton thirds travelled to Knutsford full of optimism that they could get a win. They came unstuck on a bog of a pitch against a well-organised and efficient side that made the most of their opportunities. Buxton also struggled to stay on the right side of the referee, finding his interpretation of the breakdown in particular somewhat bemusing. Things had seemed set for a good result for the thirds. They welcomed back Stratford from injury and second team duty, and Wayne Preece to add edge to the backs and had the luxury of three substitutes.

The makeshift front row of Henderson, and Fussell built around the experience of Uprichard, performed well, and Dilworth and Kidman were solid in the second row. The back row of Barber, Charles and Allen performed heroically in defence but on a sticky pitch found it difficult to get to the breakdown.

As with last week the all round defensive effort was excellent and Matt Pole was a rock at the back dealing with the frequent probing kicks and marshalling the back three who tackled bravely all afternoon. Dan Gyte belied his size with some strong running and Richie did sterling work out on the wing turning defence into attack.

The lineout functioned well and it was good to see McNicholas having a rest from his studies and returning to the fray. Buxton put together some good drives and though the forwards worked well as a unit, the moves broke down with some careless handling.

Twelve nil down at half time and Buxton were still very much in the game. Preece and Stratford were working well together but despite the opportunities there was no way through the Knutsford defence. Good set piece possession was lost in midfield. McCoy had a few good solo runs, but any ground he made was lost as the support failed to materialise. As time ebbed away frustration set in and Buxton’s discipline began to fray at the edges. Philips bravely returned to the pitch despite an injury, but he and Weston found themselves blocked by their opposite numbers.

Knutsford’s fourth try was a tough call as there were at least one Buxton hand under the ball and the referee appeared unsighted but still felt able to give the score.

A disappointing afternoon, as this was a fixture that Buxton expected to win. Training will be on Thursday evening up at the club from 7.00pm. Be there if you can. This Saturday the thirds are away to Heaton Moor .

Buxton Thirds were Poole, McCoy (Richie), Weston, Philips (W Preece), D Gyte, Stratford, Preece, Charles, Barber, Allen, Kidman, Dilworth (McNicholas), Fussell, Uprichard, Henderson,