Following their improved performance against Droitwich last week Kidderminster Carolians continued to show their mettle against Dudley Kingswinford.
During the first half KC matched DK in all aspects of the game, having territorial advantage for two thirds of the time and could be considered unlucky to be behind at half time. In the first 25 minutes KC had repeated good moves by their forwards and backs, contained by DK defence. Tom Maher prominent in the loose and line-outs and Will Fallows safe under high balls. Both sides showed positive endeavour and DK scored a good try through their backs from a move close to the KC line. KC came back with pressure on the DK line and a dropped ball hacked on by DK gave them a breakaway converted try. More KC pressure on the DK line was held out for a half time score of 12-0.
The second half began with a series of good moves by both sides; however, as KC made mistakes DK took control with three converted tries in 10 minutes. KC were not down and out, camping on the DK line for almost 5 minutes. Each incursion being countered, before their forwards finally got their reward with a try by Mike Protheroe, converted by Andy McLellan.
The earlier efforts and injuries to a number of players meant KC had walking wounded at the end so they must not be downhearted that DK scored three tries in the last ten minutes to leave the final score at 52-7.
Another defeat, nevertheless KC must be heartened that they tested the proven DK side for significant periods of the game and show promise for further progression as the season unfolds.
Bob Davies