Kettering IV v Market Harborough Vets

It was a tough day for the Kettering against a well drilled MH Vets team.

The game started fairly evenly, with both sides playing tough rugby on both sides of the ball, but it was MH who opened the scoring with a well worked try in the corner. Kettering fought back and some good work at the breakdown secured Kettering a penalty in front of the posts, slotted home by Rob Tilley.

Kettering went on the offensive again, and pushed down to the 22 before Tilley kicked another penalty. However, it was at this point that the experience of MH started to show, and their work around the breakdown was strong and quick and they quickly marched down the field for their second try.

Despite some poor discipline giving Kettering a two man advantage, they were unable to capitalise, being caught isolated and losing possession numerous times. This gave MH the opportunities for some excellent open field play as off loads didn't allow the ball to touch the ground on their way to another try. MH managed a further try from a 5m penalty before the half time whistle.

Kettering tried to rally in the second half and there were some moments where they managed to really pressure the MH defense, but they were unable to maintain their composure and turned the ball over. On the other side, MH were reaching their stride and through some fantastic running from their full back and inside centre, started carving their way through what had previously been a fairly solid Kettering defence.

Kettering had one last drive to line, started by a chip over the back line from Huw Silk, and continued up to the 5m, but once again the ball was lost at the breakdown and MH were able to clear their lines before the final whistle.

It was not a great day at the office for Kettering, but they have proven before that they can bounce back from defeat and will face a tough Bedford Queens side next week.

Thanks go to MH Vets for being great opponents and gracious in their victory. Also to Hollie Latham for once again taking some excellent photos.