The game started with a series of rucks and scrums and it became evident that this was going to be a stern test for Burton. Five minutes in and although Silks seemed to be first to break down ball, a turn over left Daniel Grimsdell with some room to open up the Silks defence. A switch move involving Matt Evans and Josh Hart gave the room for Josh to score in the corner. However, the lead lasted only briefly as a strong Silks scrum and several missed tackles led to the first Silks try. Again Burton moved the ball through the line to stretch Silks and a great move involving Matt Evans and Josh Hart left Charlie Quarterman the room to finish in the corner. If Burton thought this would soften up the Silks they were mistaken as the Silks moved up the field courtesy of a series of missed or high tackles to level the scoring. The Silks finished the half the stronger team and 3 tries within five minutes to dampen the spirits of Burton. The whistle blew 10 – 29 Silks.

Burton are not a team to let their heads drop and they came out for the second half with grit and determination. Burton started to boss the scrums and were out rucking the Silks in the early exchanges. Good work by James North, Charlie Newcombe, Connor Wood and Calum Launchbury in the ruck was rewarded by a good try via Matt Evans to reduce the deficit. However, Silks struck back with a great try following a quick penalty and passing move. Once more the Burton forwards were giving Silks a bruising time and a tackle and turn over left James North the opportunity to score in the corner. Then there seemed a real chance that Burton may turn this game around as more forward pressure saw the Silks fail to keep out Josh Wright for a try. However, Silks responded in good fashion and closed the game out with a Silky (excuse the pun) move to finish the scoring 43 – 27 Silks.

This was an excellent game played by two very strong teams. The lesson of the day for the Burton defence, tackle low.

Match details

Match date

Sun 18 Dec 2011

Kickoff

11:00

Team overview