STAINES SHOW CIVIL SERVICE HOW
Civil Service came up against a well drilled Staines team strong and disciplined and using well practiced moves forcing Civil Service to try for every opportunity to scrap for the ball. For the first time in a few games Civil Service were chasing the game with Staines excellent defensive record proving to be a challenge equal to anything that Civil Service had to throw at them. Opening well Civil Service pressured Staines into giving a penalty away which was converted by 12 Aaron Campbell 3-0 after 2 minutes. Staines came straight back and in the ensuing passage of play gained a return penalty converted by 12, 3-3 after 6 minutes. The game settled into a battled of wits and strength as the game swarmed up and down with Staines well judged kicking out of defence with the strong wind at their backs causing Civil Service to retrace their progress on several occasions. Only after 25 minutes was the deadlock broken with Staines gaining a penalty somewhat fortunately and was gratefully taken 3-6 after 25 minutes. Staines having weathered the early storm seemed to grow in confidence with their play Civil Service were forced into over commitment and defensive errors which allowed Staines 2 scores finished of the first half with a penalty to end the half at 3-24. Things were looking ominous for Civil Service but never a side to fold continued to battle hard against Staines who were looking controlled as Civil Service tried to get back into the game, as is the case when chasing the game gaps appear and the inevitable penalties clock up. On 65 minutes Staines broke through for a try and conversion followed on the 70 minute by another taking the score to 3-36. deserved by Staines consistent performance but did not reflect the efforts of Civil Service and they kept battling away keeping Staines honest and were rewarded in the last 10 minutes with 2 converted tries ending the game at 17 -36. Perhaps it is the Civil Service strength in depth that is being tested with a couple of long term injuries and the autumn internationals having an effect on selection. Next Saturday the 22nd November see Civil Service in cup action at home to Barnstaple from South West 1 league will be another stern test.
Paul Tiller