Old Yardleians 40 - Burntwood 14
Old Yardleians returned to winning ways in a wet encounter at Tilehouse Lane on Saturday. The Yardleians pack took control from the start continually driving Burntwood back in the scrums. The visitors defended bravely but tired towards the end of the first half. On 35 minutes a strong run by Richard Dransfield was supported by Rob Willis who put Adam Walker free on the right. Walker ran 50 metres unchallenged to score under the posts. This was followed quickly by a try for Captain Phil Painter. He took the ball at a lineout 10 metres out and muscled his way over the line. Both tries were converted by Rob Willis giving Old Yardleians a 14 - 0 lead at the break. Substitute Jamie Walton came on for Old Yardleians in the second half and within five minutes had weaved his way through the Burntwood defence to score a try that Rob Willis converted. This caused Burntwood to bring some of their own intensity into the game. From a lineout close to Old Yardleians line their hooker Andy Dodds managed to work his way over for a try that was converted by Craig Seadhouse. The home side came straight back spending long periods in the Burntwood half. Then on 70 minutes the Old Yardleians? pack drove the visitors back again and scrum half Guy Smith breached the defence to score Old Yardleians fourth try. Rob Willis converted to make it 28 - 7. As the game neared its end there were three more tries in the final five minutes. Firstly, following fast recycled ball, Old Yardleians centre Gary Williams rolled back the years as he danced through the Burntwood centres to set up a try for Jo Patrick. Then the highlight of the day was Yard?s prop Peter ?the Fridge? Butler?s 40 metre unchallenged run up the centre of the field. He then off loaded to Dave ?Chicken? Hansen who kicked ahead for the young Rob Willis to score. Elliot Honey converted. Finally, Burntwood got a consolation penalty try after Yards obstructed their centre. It was converted by Craig Seadhouse. A final score of 40 - 14 to Old Yardleians, who fully deserved their win. Old Yardleians are away at Wednesbury this Saturday in the league with the second XV playing Wednesbury seconds at home. Both games kick off at 2.15.