KC’s 28 : Vipers 16

KCs were drawn against Vipers RFC from Leicester in this first round of the RFU Intermediate cup.
The dry conditions were just right for an open game of rugby and KCs came out strongly putting pressure on Vipers from the whistle. After four minutes this
pressure was rewarded with a try to Dave Kane, converted by Jack O’Hagan.
KC forwards were working well in the loose, Dave Kane and Simon Clarke always being prominent and Clarke, deservedly, received the man of the match award. Debutants Jack Barratt and George Lloyd-Jones made good contributions.
Vipers had their moments and their pressure yielded two penalties, missing one and getting three points from the other.
KCs scored a well worked try from a maul on the edge of the Vipers 22 passing to Andy McClellan, who picking the perfect line sliced through to score. Jack O’Hagan stepped up to make the conversion.
A few minutes later KCs scored the best try of the afternoon. KC won the ball from a forward’s maul near the centre spot and after a couple of passes the ball went to George Tildesley who, with a little jink, mesmerised the defence and with a 40 metre run cut through to score. Again Jack O’Hagan made the conversion.
Just before the first half ended Vipers were awarded a penalty which they kicked to take the half-time score to 21-6.
The open rugby from the KC backs was enjoyed by the spectators and although they had a healthy lead there were some opportunities missed.
Hooker Dave Kane initiated a great move, making 20 metres into the Vipers 22, this was finished off to score by right wing Jim Tildesley. The conversion was completed by Jack O’Hagan, taking his personal tally to four out of four. O’Hagan also made other significant contributions, gaining ground with raking kicks and good defence.
Into the fourth quarter KC relaxed somewhat and allowed Vipers back into the game when they won possession and gained ground. Close to the KC posts they were awarded a penalty which they tapped, winning another penalty from their pressure and then passing the ball wide to score. More pressure from Vipers yielded them another unconverted try, both tries were not converted although the first attempt hit the right hand post.
In the last few minutes KC, now down to fourteen men due to a yellow card, sorted themselves out and the game finished with them putting pressure onto the Vipers line as the final whistle came.
KCs played well for most of the game, although relaxing when the game appears to be won. If they keep their concentration they will pose a challenge to the teams in their league.

Bob Davies