Blues lose their way

Always a tough fixture, away at Ilkeston, and even though they have not started the season in the form they have shown in recent years, the word on the street was this was the best side they had and could field thus far, and so it proved.

Playing down the hill with the conditions in their favour, the Blues knew they had to start strong. They did this and took the lead with an excellent score from Steve Fraher after a long break-out from deep in their won half. Joe Daniel added the extra's and 2 penalties, to give the visitors and 13 point lead as the first half drew to a close.

With little time left, a crucial turning point saw Daniel harshly yellow carded, and then with the final play of the half a sniping break by the home scrum-half saw the hosts close the gap with a converted try, as the referee blew for half-time.

This buoyed the home side, and with the slope and wind behind them they set about their task with re-newed vigour. The Blues for their part, seemed deflated by the situation, which was made significantly worse as the hosts scored a second try early in the half, which when converted took them into a one point lead.

Restored to 15, the Blues tried to fight back, but an interception saw the home side draw clear and despite the fact that their was only 8 points between the sides, Kettering seemed to concede defeat. Ilkeston began to play with much more confidence and scored 2 further tries to run out comfortable winners.

RAJ Men of the Match: Dan Martin/ Tom Bridgeman