Castle Donnington 1st XV 39 Dronfield 1st XV 7
Dronfield travelled down to Donnington for their final league match of the season. With the home side aware that victory would give them promotion, they were keen to gain victory. Dronfield started slowly, struggling to cope with the strong running of the home team, conceding three tries in the first half hour in what can only be described as a lacklustre display.

Dronfield started the second half in a much more positive vain and were able to put together some excellent phases of play, with forwards and backs combining. Full back and captain Andy File was a constant danger. In what turned out to be a much more even second half Dronfield scored an excellent converted try through Rodgers, following on from good driving play from the Dronfield pack. Dronfield two more well worked tries as the half progressed, but it was the away side that end the game the stronger, with intense pressure on the Donnington line.

Dronfield finished the season away from the relegation positions, but will need to wait for possible league restructuring before they will know who their opponents will be next year. The only fixtures now remaining are the Annual Presidents Match on Gosforth Fields on Saturday May 6th and the County Shield Final against either Buxton or Donnington at Amber Valley. The clubs AGM and Presentation Evening is on Wednesday May 10th at Dronfield Sports and Social Club.

 

Dronfield 1st XV 8 East Leake 1st XV 3
Dronfield 1st XV's opponents at Gosforth Fields, for their final home league fixture of the season, were East Leake. Conditions were atrocious with a gale force wind down the pitch and intermittent hail and sleet almost horizontal at times. Dronfield played the first half with the wind and hail in their faces and not surprisingly spent long periods defending. East Leake used the high ball to put Dronfield under pressure but Chris Sorsby and Matt Thomas were confident in dealing with this tactic. Andy File, in more than one occasion, linked up well with colleagues following strong decisive running out of defence.

 

It was File who saved Dronfield when his try saving tackle kept Dronfield's try line intact. Chris Burgin. Gary Foxon and Scott Garland gained valuable ground with powerful surges. East Leake were skilled at gaining turn- over ball at the breakdown and were well organised with close inter- forward play. On the stroke of half time the visitors took the lead when Dronfield conceded a penalty within their 22. The successful kick gave East Leake 3-0 lead.

With the wintery conditions now at their backs it was anticipated that Dronfield would soon overhaul East Leake's slender lead. However lethargic build- up play, inaccurate passing and an inability to maintain continuity through phases, meant Dronfield had little opportunity to score . This was in spite of the fact that East Leake were unable to venture into Dronfield's half for a 15 minute period.

 

Eventually after twenty minutes Dronfield drew level being awarded a penalty which Matt Lowry kicked. Soon after this Dave Yule came very close to scoring but a tap takle stopped hom just short of the line. Chris Sorsby was then bundled into touch in the corner after a rare handling move from the home side.

As the game entered the final stages, it looked as though, for the second consecutive match, Dronfield would finish with a 3-3 draw. In the final ten minutes Dronfieldtwice came close to taking the lead with forward surges. The deadlock was finally broken in the last few minutes with controlled possession for Dronfield at a 5 metre scrum. Quick thinking by John Steade gave him the opportunity to touch down from close range and give Dronfield a vital home victory. This had not been one of their better performances but they had stuck to the task in hand in appalling conditions and gained two much needed league points.

 

This victory could, dependent on other results, mean that Dronfield are clear of the relegation places. Dronfield next match a week on Saturday is their final league match of the season away at Castle Donnington.

Long Eaton 1^st XV 3 Dronfield 1^st XV 3

Both Dronfield 1^st and 2nd sides travelled down to Long Eaton  for matches. The 1^st XV had a NLD/N Leics league match with the need for points vital to move further away from the bottom clubs. From the kick off Dronfield were forced to defend with relief coming from touch kicks and excellent tackling from especially Tom Walshaw. After ten minutes Dronfield began to come more into the game and spent the next twenty minutes encamped in the Long Eaton half. They came very close to scoring on two occasions but firstly a poor midfield pass and then later a knock-on ended the promising moves. Both sides from the start were having great difficulty with the referee interpretation of the laws and opportunities to maintain momentum were made impossible with the frequent use of the whistle. Towards half time the home side began to control the scrums limiting Dronfield's quick ball. Nick Barker, Ryley Wing and Gary Foxon gained ground with forward drives and came close to the try line but were unable to link up with team mates for the final pass. Andy File was in space with the line beckoning only to be brought back for the award of a penalty to Dronfield in their own half, given for foul play by a Long Eaton forward. At half time the score therefore remained 0-0.

 

Soon after the interval the stalemate was finally broken with the award of a penalty to Dronfield with Matt Lowry successful with the kick .Unfortunately for the visitors soon after Long Eaton replied with a similar penalty kick .Dronfield continued to press for victory. Their best opportunity coming with 15 minutes remaining. Possession was gained from a five metre scrum close to Long Eaton's try line and the ball controlled at the back of the scrum. Somehow very close to the try line Long Eaton managed to kick the ball from the back of the scrum resulting bizarrely in the award of a 22 drop out for the home side. In the closing minutes Tony Hutton came close to scoring in the corner but the award of a penalty to Long Eaton and a kick to touch left the sides level on 3-3.

 

This had been a frustrating afternoon for Dronfield but they deserve credit  for maintaining self control in difficult circumstances.

Next week the firsts travel to Bakewell Mannerians for the Derbyshire County Shield semi-final.

 

Dronfield 1^st XV 36 Stamford  1^st XV 5

Dronfield after recent victories against teams in the lower half of the NLD/N/Leics league were hoping to move further away from the relegation zone with victory in their home fixture against Stamford. Conditions were very heavy underfoot but this did not deter Dronfield from moving the ball through hands from the start. Playing with the advantage of the slope in the first half they were soon on the attack with their pack dominating and gaining valuable ground with well timed drives and support play. Only strong Stamford defence kept Dronfield from crossing the try line in the first 15 minutes. However, almost continuous Dronfield pressure was eventually rewarded with a score out wide from Keith Elsey. This try had resulted from a charge down, pick up and pass from Gary Foxon. After this  Dronfield continued to play excellent rugby with frequent flowing back moves possible due to the quick possession available  from scrums and mauls. Before half time Dronfield had scored three more  well -worked moves involving long passes. Full back Matt Thomas joined the line to score in the corner, Tom Walshaw powered through with a strong driving run and Keith Elsey scored his second try of the match being experienced enough to be in the right place to receive the final pass. Matt Lowry kicked two of the conversions to give the home side a well deserved 24-0 half time lead.

 

In the second half Stamford had a 15 minute period when they came more into the game and a lapse of concentration in defence allowed them to score an unconverted try. However the conceding of a try seemed to gel  Dronfield's endeavours and they once more began to dominate. It was fitting that the two tries in the second half were scored by men of the match Gary Foxon and 1^st XV debutant Chris Wrigley. This fine team performance means that Dronfield have won three of their last four league fixtures and can now look forward with some confidence to next week's cup match against near neighbours and rivals Chesterfield. With Chesterfield having a good season with many victories, the match at Gosforth Fields should prove to be a close encounter.

 

Dronfield 2^nd XV were also at Gosforth Fields but unfortunately lost 22-7 to Keyworth in the Pennant League. Their only try being scored by Matt Green.

 

Ashby 1^st XV 22 Dronfield 1^st XV 0

On a weekend when many matches were cancelled, Dronfield 1^st XV travelled down to Leicestershire to face league high flyers Ashby in the NLD/N Leics league. Conditions were far from ideal at the start and as the game progressed the state of the pitch deteriorated dramatically. In the corresponding fixture at Gosforth Fields, earlier in the season, Dronfield had great difficulty coping with the Ashby pack and this proved to be the situation once more. Throughout the game Dronfield's inability to gain controlled possession from the scrum and lineout severely limited their opportunities to attack. Ashby took dominated right from the kick-off with driving mauls and forward inter- play. Dronfield were hampered by the awarding of frequent penalties against them. It was only excellent defensive play that kept them in the game until well into the second half. Dronfield made changes in an attempt to provide increased attacking options but were unable to cross their opponents try line and were given no opportunities for penalty kicks at goal.

 

Despite this defeat Dronfield remain out of the relegation positions but have a vital home fixture next week against bottom club Stamford. Dronfield must gain victory with only three other league matches remaining.

 

Dronfield 1^st XV 39 Buxton 1^st XV 0

After last weeks last minute victory over fellow strugglers Anstey it was imperative for Dronfield to maintain momentum with another victory if they were to move away from the relegation zone in the NLD/N Leics league. Dronfield's opponents at Gosforth Fields were Buxton who are in the top half of the table.

 

Dronfield started very confidently using the slope to their advantage and dominating  the early scrums and loose play. This resulted in quick ball available to the backs and they took advantage of this moving the ball through hands to both sides of the field. After four minutes their pressure was rewarded with a well timed long past allowing Andy File to find an opening in midfield and his power took him past two tackles to score under the posts. Matt Lowry's coversion increased the lead to 7-0. Dronfield continued to build on this solid strart with confident forward drives and inter-passing. Nick Barker  charged over the line from close range for Dronfield's second converted try. Dronfield were able to maintain this high tempo rugby with further scores coming at regular intervals. Dave Yule score as a result of the gaining if quick ball from the loose, then Dronfield's leading try scorer Eugene Louw darted through a gap to score and finally before half time Ashley Guth's strength keep him in play near the corner flag allowing him to score out wide.This excellent team effort gave the home side a 29-0 half time lead.

Playing the second half up the slope,ther was an expectation that Buxton would come more into the game. Although they did have more possession from scrums excellent tackling and spoiling resulted in turnovers for Dronfield. Dronfield were forced to make substitutions due to injuries to Dave Yule and Dave Webb but were still able to maintain control.

 

A Matt Lowry penalty which came as a result of good work from Tom Walshaw ansd Gary Foxon increased the lead. As the game entered the final quarter, Buxton's frustrations at being outplayed lead to tempers fraying. Dronfield to their credit maintained self control and continued to be on top in the set pieces and loose. Dronfield's forwards came close to scoring on a number of drives and the final try of the game came from Matt Lowry who was on hand to finish off after more good work from the Dronfield pack . His conversion made the final score 39-0 to Dronfield -their most impressive performance of the season. The margin of victory may also prove important as point difference may be a factor at the end of the season. Dronfield now have five league fixtures remaining and they are aware that further victories are essential to maintain their present league status.

 

After this total team performance, wher selecting a man of the match was difficult, the team should feel confident at the task in hand.

 

Anstey RUFC 1st XV 23 vs Dronfield RUFC 1st XV 24
With a number of players missing, Dronfield travelled to Anstey, Leicestershire for a very important game with fellow table stugglers in a game that may go on to decide those staying in this league next season. As expected the game was incredibly close with Anstey playing some direct rugby utilising strong runners through the middle of the park, gaining good ground and opening the scoring with a penalty early in the first half.
Dronfield replied, almost instantly, by increasing their work rate, spreading the ball wide and creating gaps in the centres. After good lineout work by Riley Wing, the ball was moved to Matt Thomas who exploited one such gap and Dronfield worked well behind the Anstey defence eventually scoring through winger Tony Hutton. The work rate was maintained and Dronfield again found themselves deep in the Anstey half with flanker Tom Walshaw pressurising the Anstey fly half. Constant pressure lead to Dronfields second try as Matt Thomas charged down a clearance kick and chased the ball over the try line to score near the posts. Both tries were converted by Matt Lowry leaving the score at half time 17-3 to Dronfield.

In the second half Dronfield began to struggle with the running style of Anstey and as tackles were missed, Anstey clawed their way back into the game. Anstey scored two tries in quick succession and began to dominate in the scrums and in the middle of the park, eventually opening out a lead of 23-17.

With 10 minutes remaining the Dronfield team began to acknowledge the effort that was needed to win the game, the forwards were well disciplined and the backs found their width again, pulling the play out wide. In one of the final plays of the game Ashley Guth ran up the right handside and appeared to have run out of space, however, with quick thinking and great awareness he place a cross field kick back into the middle of the park and into the path of oncoming second row Gary Foxon who, with the skills of a premiership footballer, dribbled the ball over the try line to score under the posts, the try was converted again by Matt Lowry, to complete his perfect kicking game and seal the result for Dronfield.

 

Dronfield 1^st XV 5 vs Notts Casuals 1^st XV 29

After the highs of beating a team from a higher division last weekend, Dronfield RUFC returned to old ways on Saturday with a frustrating display against Notts casuals. Dronfield started the game brightly with some neat interplay between forwards and backs and some hard tackling by Gary Foxon. Notts casuals game plan appeared to be defensive, utilising a good counter attack and this proved successful as they scored midway through the second half after breaking from well within their own territory.

 

After some solid possession from Dronfield's pack and quick ball distributed by John Steade, Ashley Guth was unlucky not to score a try after some spirited running.  As the whistle blew for half time Dronfield were behind but still very much in the game.

 

Perhaps sensing their chance Dronfield applied the pressure from the off in the second half, and after some good running by Chris Burgan and Nick Barker, a determined driving maul lead to a well deserved try from scrum half John Steade, with a conversion narrowly missed.

 

Unfortunately for Dronfield this was their last opportunity as the Notts defence was solid and their counter attack proved strong enough to score a number of tries late in the second half. This meant the game concluded with Notts casuals winning by 29 - 5 leaving Dronfield on equal points at the bottom of the table with some important games approaching.

 

Dronfield  1^st XV 22 Mellish  1^st XV 10

With no league fixture this week, Dronfield 1^st XV had a home pool fixture against Mellish. The Nottingham-based side play their rugby in a higher league to Dronfield and therefore a difficult match was anticipated. Dronfield were able to field the majority of the side that lost narrowly to Worksop last weekend, with experienced John Smalley and Ryley Wing coming into the pack.

 

Dronfield started confidently with early dominance in both line out and scrum and surging runs from Gary Foxon, Tom Walsaw and Nick Barker. An excellent move involving the whole of the back division almost led to a try for Adrian Wileman. After ten minutes Dronfield were rewarded with a try from close range by Matt Lowry. This was result of co-ordinated scrummaging from five metre out. Soon after the lead was increased when fly-half John Steade  darted through a space in midfield .Forward support and inter- passing led to Tom Walshaw touching down. Ashley Guth's conversion made the score 12-0. At this stage of the game Mellish had had few opportunities to attack due to solid defensive play from Dronfield. A Matt Lowry penalty and then on the stroke of half-time, a John Steade try, converted by Guth gave the home side a well deserved 22-0 lead.

 

In the second half and with the advantage if the slope, Mellish came far more into the game and Dronfield found themselves encamped in their own half for long periods. Eventually continuous pressure told with two unconverted tries conceded. Near the end of the game players were sin-binned from both sides and Dronfield were forced to finish the game with only thirteen players. In spite of this they held on to gain a well-deserved and long over-due victory.

 

It is hoped that their first half performance can be carried forward for a full eighty minutes next week in their home league match against Notts Casuals. Dronfield showed that they have the ability to match any side in their league providing they maintain commitment, concentration and fitness.

 

Worksop  1^st XV 5 Dronfield  1^st XV 0

Dronfield 1^st XV travelled the short distance to Worksop for their opening NLD/N Leics league fixture of 2006. Unfortunately their disappointing league form continued with yet another defeat by a single score.In extremely heavy conditions, the home side had the early territorial advantage putting Dronfield under pressure. John Steade was called upon to kick out of defence on frequent occasions and Matt Thomas proved confident under the high ball. As the first half progressed Dronfield came more into the game with Dave Yule gaining valuable ground with surging midfield running .Dronfield's best chance of the half fell to winger Chris Sorsby. He found space close to the touchline and reached Worksop's 22 before being tackled-unfortunately he was unable to link up with his supporting colleagues. Dronfield were forced to make a change before half time due to an injury to Dave Walsh resulting in fewer opportunities for controlled possession from the line-outs.Walsh was replaced by birthday boy Andy Short. At half time the score remained 0-0.

 

In the second half, with conditions deteriorating, Dronfield did have opportunities to score. Twice they found themselves in possession in the Worksop half with overlaps available only to choose the wrong option in midfield. Then soon after, Chris Sorsby kicked ahead a loose ball to come within inches of scoring a try in the corner. As the game entered the final quarter and both sides tired, Worksop placed more emphasis on forward drives.  Dronfield had difficulty coping with this tactic and it was therefore no surprise that the only try of the match should result for Worksop from a contolled drive and then quick release to an unmarked attacker on the blindside. Scott Garland who had an immense game at prop and full back Matt Thomas were named joint men of the match.

 

Dronfield need to more frequently adapt their game plan as games progressed. Far too often possession and good scoring opportunities are lost through poor choices of options. This defeat puts more importance on the return fixtures over the next few weeks with fellow strugglers Anstey, Stamford, Notts Casuals and East Leake. Dronfield will hope to keep key players fit and available especially for these key matches.

 

Dronfield 1st XV  0  Boston 1st XV 17

Dronfield 1^st XV welcomed third placed Boston to Gosforth Fields. After being heavily defeated in the corresponding away fixture earlier in the season, Dronfield were aware that there was a need for an improved performance if they were to match their opponents. Dronfield started impressively and were soon pressurising the Boston line with the home side's pack getting on top in the early exchanges.  The Dronfield scrum was particularly effective, with props Scott Garland and Gavin Parker leading the way.  As has often been the case in recent weeks though, Dronfield were unable to convert this pressure into points with mistakes at crucial moments letting Boston off the hook.  On one of the rare occasions when Boston were in the Dronfield half ill-discipline from the home team gave them the opportunity to open the scoring with a penalty.  Despite more pressure from the home side with Keith Elsey grounding the ball inches short of a try, this was the only score of the half.

Boston started the second half well and had much the better of early territory and possession.  Their lead was soon extended with three more, well struck penalties, to leave the score 12-0.  This was the spur Dronfield needed and they began to play some of excellent rugby with backs and forwards combining.  Once again it was errors and ill-discipline that cost the home side and gave Boston the opportunities to relieve the pressure.  The final score of the game came from Boston and was a well worked try from their winger. 

 

This was an encouraging performance from Dronfield against the high-flying Boston.  They showed in patches the levels of commitment and skill they will need over the coming months. The next matches for the club are on January 7^th when Worksop provide the opposition.

 

East Leake 1st XV 15 Dronfield  1^st XV 11

Dronfield 1^st XV had a disappointing result against fellow strugglers East Leake in this away NLD/N Leics league fixture. Not for the first time this season Dronfield were defeated narrowly in a match they should have won convincingly. There seemed little impetus and drive in their inept performance with forward play especially in the first half of a basic nature with a tendency to give away well earned possession far too easily. Despite this two penalty kicks from Eugene Louw and a try from Matt Lowry  gave Dronfield a 11-10 lead going into the final minutes of the game due in part to some useful territorial kicking. Regretably ineffective defensive play resulted in the conceding of a soft try being scored by the home side to give them an unexpected victory .Dronfield must learn from this poor performance and in their return fixtures with East Leake, Stamford, Anstey and Notts Casuals improve their work rate if they are to avoid relegation this season

 

Dronfield 1^st XV 14 Castle Donnington 1^st Xv 28

Both Dronfield sides were at home this week against Castle Donnington and before the games started there was a minute's silence in honour of John Drury, one of the founder members of Dronfield Rugby Club, who sadly passed away recently. With the return of some key players missing in last weeks NLD Plate defeat at Donnington last week, Dronfield 1^st XV hoped for a closer encounter .Conditions under foot were far from ideal making an expansive game inappropriate. Dronfield started the game taking the game to their opponents and had the better of the early scrums. Paul Jepson on his 1^st team return was causing problems for Donningtons half backs, not giving them time to settle on the ball.

 

Early Donnington attacks were countered with excellent defensive play by firstly Adrian Wileman and then soon after by Chris Sorsby. It was the home side who took the lead when Donnington were penalised on their 22 and Ashley Guth was successful with his penalty attempt. Unfortunately for home supporters and players Donnington soon responded when they scored a converted try after good forwarding driving close to the try line. Their lead was increased with a second converted try again following excellent power play and driving. At this stage the game lost its impetus with frequent stoppages for injuries to players on both sides. Two penalties kicks by Eugene Louw reduced the visitors lead and at half time the score was 14-9.

 

In the second half conditions deteriorated with Dronfield playing up the slope and into the heavy driving rain .For long periods they were called upon to defend and conceded a third converted try. At this point it would have been easy for Dronfield to lose heart but to their credit they continued their efforts and were rewarded with try scored out wide by Myles Butler after a quickly taken short penalty by Eugene Louw. Dronfield were now only one score behind their opponents. They were unlucky not to draw level soon after. Louw kicking out of Donnington's 22 ,sprinted the length of the field whilst maintaining control of the ball at his feet. It was unfortunate that his final kick ahead just crossed the dead ball line as he dived on it. In time added on at the end of the game, Donnington scored once more finding space in midfield to gain victory by 28-14 With Donnington only having lost one league fixture all season, Dronfield had proved stern opposition.

 

Castle Donnington 1^st XV 36 Dronfield 1^st XV 6 (CUP)

 Dronfield travelled down to Donnington for this NLD Plate match with one of the youngest 1^st XV for many years. This was due in part to the unavailability of seven regular 1st XV players, but also due to the Dronfield Vets fixture against Sheffield Tigers . The match would therefore give experience to many younger club members.

 

Dronfield kicked off and had the best of the early possession. From an excellent line-out take and resulting drive, the ball came to Matt Thomas who linked up with Tony Hutton playing at outside centre. This combination almost resulted in a try. Dronfield continued with their positive game plan and dominated the line-outs with both Tom Walshaw and Chris Burgin impressive and Dave Tankard providing accurate throw-ins. After ten minutes Dronfield were rewarded with a successful penalty from Matt Lowry. The home side then began to come more into the game and only excellent tackling from Lowry, Gary Foxon and then Chris Sorsby stopped potential try scoring moves. Eventually Dronfield's defence was breached with a pushover try from a 5 metre scrum. Matt Thomas, at outside- half was growing in confidence with good selection of options and was well supported by Steve Lyons. Before half time Donnington unfortunately increased their lead with a second pushover try to make the score 12-3.

 

Early in the second half the lead was reduced with Matt Lowry's second penalty. As the game progressed Donnington had more opportunities for controlled possession especially from the loose where they were able  to gain turn over ball.. With twenty minutes remaining the home side lead 15-6.Dronfield continued to show excellent team spirit and support for each other and where unlucky to concede further scores with two tries coming in the last two minutes of the game. The margin of victory was not a true reflection of Dronfield's part in the game and it did not reflect their efforts both in attack and defence .Many positives can be taken from the game and captain Andy File can feel proud of those who represented the club.

 

Boston 1st XV 47 Dronfield 1st XV 

Dronfield travelled down to play their NLD/N Leics league fixture at the impressive Princess Royal Sports Arena in confident mood following their excellent performance last week.  Once again however they had to make a number of late changes in key positions.  After the long journey Dronfield did not start well and were soon behind to a well drilled and powerful Boston outfit.  Dronfield spent much of the first half defending and had conceded three well worked tries by the half hour mark.  As the half progressed Dronfield came more into the game, with their lineout functioning well and their backs looking dangerous on the few occasions they got the ball.  Just before half time Dronfield scored what was to be their only try of the game, which followed a superb break by fly-half Matt Thomas.  From the resulting line-out the Dronfield pack secured good ball and drove second row Nick Barker over for a well -deserved score.  Dronfield added a penalty from Ashley Guth to leave the half time score 24-8.

 

The second half followed much the same pattern as the first with Dronfield struggling to gain possession in their opponents half.  As Dronfield chased the game the home side were able to capitalise on the space left an eventually ran out comfortable winners.

Dronfield can take heart from some elements of this performance against a well-drilled and confident team.

 

Dronfield 1st XV 26 Worksop 1st XV 7
Dronfield returned to winning ways in this home NLD/N Leics League fixture against high- flying Worksop. It was obvious right from the start that the home side had the correct attitude and game plan. The forwards worked together as a unit and provided an excellent platform for their backline. After only five minutes Dronfield took the lead when the referee awarded them a penalty try for a high tackle on Dave Yule who was about to score. Eugene Louw's conversion made the score 7-0 to Dronfield. Soon after it was Dave Yule once more who was on hand to finish off an excellent handling movement for a score under the posts. Throughout the first half Dronfield totally dominated , with outstanding team play coming at regular intervals. Ashley Guth cut back inside, when in possession, to make the score 19-0 at half time.
In the second half the home side continued in similar vein with forward domination and fine inter-passing between backs and forwards. The final try for Dronfield came from full back Matt Thomas. Receiving the ball in his 22 he accurately kicked ahead, followed up and with the bounce of the ball being in his favour, was able to regain possession to score an excellent individual try. Eugene Louw's conversion increased the lead to 26-0. In the final minute of the game the visitors scored a consolation try although there was a strong hint of a knock on in the build up.
This had been a well deserved victory and was the type of performance that had been evident earlier in the season but lacking in recent weeks. Credit must go to the whole team for their efforts and positive approach. It is hoped that this win will provide a much needed boost to the club and will provide confidence for next week's visit to third place Boston.

Southwell XV 23   Dronfield 1st XV 5

With their planned opponents Castle Donnington still involved in  the National Powergen Vase competition, Dronfield took the opportunity to give some of their younger players some first team experience in this friendly fixture at Southwell.  The young Dronfield side started well, with good handling and intelligent kicking putting the home side under pressure.  It was Dronfield who opened the scoring when scrumhalf Eugene Louw finished off some excellent driving play from the lively Dronfield forwards.  As the first half progressed the home side came more into the game, with help from the referees whistle.  Just before half time the scores were levelled when a missed tackle in midfield led to a try for the Southwell backs. 

 

The home side made several changes at half time and came out much stronger for the second half.  Dronfield now found themselves under real pressure in the scrums and were not securing the steady stream of line-out ball they had enjoyed in the first half.  Dronfield defended well against a well-organised and confident team, with fullback Ashley Guth making some excellent try-saving tackles.  Despite this Southwell took the lead with penalty, which was quickly followed by another to leave the score 11-5.  As the second half wore on and Dronfield tired gaps began appearing in their defence, with Southwell crossing for two tries.  This left the final score 23-5.

There were some real positives from this performance for Dronfield, with some excellent driving play from their forwards and real commitment shown in defence.  Dronfield must now take these positives into next week's  league game  at home against Worksop.

 

Notts Casuals 1st XV 12 Dronfield 1st XV  7

Dronfield travelled down to Nottingham with a much changed team as a result of injuries and unavailability.  In a scrappy first half Dronfield failed to dominate, with frequent handling errors and infringements gifting possession to the home side.  The only points of the half came from the home side, with a speculative kick ahead leading to a try as the Dronfield cover was outpaced.  With the half-time score 5-0 a stern team talk from captain Andy File seemed to stir Dronfield into action in the second half, with centres Dave Yule and Ashley Guth making good ground.  It was however, the home side that scored first with a well worked backs move leading to their full back cantering in under the posts.  This try was converted to leave the score 12-0.  From this point in the game Dronfield dominated, with excellent driving play from their forwards, and winger Tony Hutton a constant menace.  It was now the home side that were falling foul of the referee's whistle with two player sin-binned within the space of five minutes.  Dronfield's pressure on the Casual's line eventually told with number eight Dave Walsh crossing for a try, which was converted by Ashley Guth.  Despite a frantic last ten minutes Dronfield were unable to add to their score, leaving the final score 12-7 to the home side.

 

This was once again a match Dronfield could, and indeed should, have won. It was also the third  consecutive defeat by a single score!

 

Dronfield 1^st XV  17   Keyworth 1^st XV  19

Dronfield Firsts entertained Keyworth in this NLD/N Leics league fixture. The visitors started in a positive manner and had the best of the opening phases.  They were encamped in Dronfield's 22 and deservedly took the lead with a successful penalty kick awarded for a Dronfield infringement. From the re-start Dave Walsh's follow up harassed Keyworth's attempt at clean possession. This resulted in a mix-up in their mid-field. Dave Yule took advantaged of this indecision took pick up on the move and score from outside the 22. Ashley Gutt's conversion now giving Dronfield a 7-3 lead. Unfortunately for Dronfield Keyworth regained the lead with dominant play from their pack. This put pressure on Dronfield and as a result another penalty that was accurate was given. Just before half time this lead was increased.  Dronfield's inability to deal with a Keyworth attacking kick led to a converted try.

 

Fror the second half Dronfield attempted to bring more solidity to their front five and brought on Gavin Parker. This brought more control in the scrum  and subsequently more time and space for scrum half Eugene Louw. His quick thinking and well timed pass giving Chris Sorsby room to take on the opposing full back. An excellent side step led to a fine try converted by Louw. Now it was Dronfield's turn to lead 14-13.Play continued to move from end to end . Scott Garland's powerful run created space for the home side but Keyworth were able to counter.As the second half progressed both sides defensive tackling was of a high standard. In a game where the lead frequently changed hands Keyworth re-gained the lead with a penalty and then Dronfield scored from a Louw penalty to go ahead. In the final minute Keyworth scored once more again from another penalty to win the match. It was frustrating for Dronfield when with the final kick of the game they missed a penalty kick that could have  meant a different result.

 

This defeat puts Dronfield struggling towards the foot of the league table.They must attempt to redress their inability  to give away needless penalties at crucial times in recent games. Next week they travel to Nottingham  for their fixture against Notts Casuals

 

Dronfield 1^st XV 12 Long Eaton 1^st XV 11

 On a weekend that saw both Dronfield sides returning to their home base at Gosforth Fields to play on adjacent pitches for the first time, it was fitting that there were excellent performances from  them in front of enthusiastic home support.

 

The 1^st XV's opponents were Long Eaton in a NLD/N Leics league fixture originally planned for the first Saturday of the season, but cancelled by Long Eaton .Both sides started in a positive manner with the ball being moved out wide. Dronfield soon gained the initiative and their early pressure brought them a score after only a few minutes, Eugene Louw darting through a gap close to the visitors try line. Ashley Guth was successful with the conversion to give Dronfield a 7-0 lead. Unfortunately this lead was soon reduced by Long Eaton  with a try resulting from good following up after a well judged kick ahead. The next phase of the game required Dronfield to defend resolutely. A silly error from a Dronfield player within his 22 resulted in the award of a penalty to Long Eaton and from this they took the lead .For the remainder of the first half Dronfield were on top, being encamped in their opponents half for long periods. During this time Dronfield played excellent rugby with excellent well-timed passing and support play. Only excellent tackles close to the try line stopped Adrian Wileman and then Andy File from scoring. Eventually just before half time Dronfield regained the lead. Once more it was Eugene Louw who found space to score his second try and give the home side a 12-8 lead.

 

The second half proved to be disjointed with frequent stoppages due to injuries on both sides. Dronfield were unable to maintain the same level of concentration and were guilty of losing possession through silly mistakes and ill-discipline. It was from one such infringement that Long Eaton reduced the lead to a single point with a penalty from in front of the posts.With 15 minutes remaining Dronfield increased their work rate and began to take control, experienced John Steade controlling possession. Tony Hutton and Andy File provided solidity in defence. Dave Walsh and towards the end of the game, Keith Elsey. were excellent ball carriers retaining possession a vital times.Dronfield held onto gain a well-deserved victory to move further up the table. Next week they are a home once more , this time against Keyworth.

 

Buxton 1^st XV 15 Dronfield 1^st xv 6

Dronfield 1^st xv travelled to Buxton for this NLD/N Leics league fixture with a much changed side. They gave first team debuts to Chris Sorsby, Tim Collins and Tom Walshaw. With both Buxton and Dronfield having similar scores in victories over Stamford and defeats against Ashby it was anticipated that the game would be a close encounter. In the first half Dronfield had the strong wind at their backs and started confidently, putting their opponents under immediate pressure. After five minutes Dronfield were awarded a penalty and Ashley Guth kicked Dronfield into the lead. Defensive play from both sides meant little opportunity for attacking flair. Midway through the first half Guth increased Dronfield lead with another successful penalty kick. Now finding themselves behind 6-0 gave Buxton reason to increase their workrate and as a result they became more dominant. Only try saving tackles from firstly skipper Andy File and then New Zealander Matt Green stopped Buxton from scoring. Unfortunately for Dronfield soon after the home side were awarded a short penalty and as a result of a well worked move a Buxton forward scored from close range. Despite the efforts of three Dronfield players to tackle him at the same time momentum took him over the try line to score an unconverted try. This meant Dronfield held a slender one point lead ,6-5 at half time.

 

Soon after the turn- around Buxton scored a second try to give them the lead. Dronfield were forced to make changes with the influential John Steade having to leave the field with a hamstring injury. Gary Foxton on his return to the first team gained valuable ground with driving runs and Tom Walshaw was impressing having moved up to a higher level. Despite their efforts Dronfield conceded a third try towards the end of the game to lose 15-6. This defeat drops Dronfield towards the foot of the table and means that next week's home match against bottom club Anstey is vital.  Dronfield continue to struggle for consistency.

 

Dronfield 1^st XV  12    Ashby 1^st XV 42

After last week's excellent performance against Worcester Wanderers in the National Junior Vase competition Dronfield went into their NLD/N Leics League encounter with Ashby in confident mood. Ashby, league leaders and with a 100% league record prove stern opposition at Gosforth Fields and it was soon obvious to the home side that their opponents were well drilled both in the pack and threequarter line.. After a penalty awarded at the start for Dronfield's alleged late appearance on the pitch Ashby spent the majority of the first 20 minutes encamped in Dronfield's half . They were able to gain possession from almost all scrums even those on Dronfield's put in. Only excellent clearance kicking from fly half Matt Thomas brought relief.  Unfortunately  the visitors scored two almost identical tries moving the ball quickly along their backline allowing their left wing to score in the corner.

 

Dronfield then came more into the game and came close to scoring twice in a matter of minutes firstly after a midfield break from Dave Yule and then from a powerful Andy File run  . Their endeavours were finally rewarded when possession was gained after a superb Keith Elsey tackle. Forward drives close to the Ashby line resulted in Ade Finlay crashing over from close range. Eugene Louw's conversion made the score 10-7 to the visitors. Just before half time Ashby scored another try again involving interplay between their backs

At the start of the second half Dronfield were forced to re-organise when Paul Short had to leave the field with a nasty head injury. Ashby once more proved decisive with their back play and scored three further tries. Dronfield were forced to make further changes due to further injuries to key players Towards the end the game Dronfield were rewarded for their continued commitment with Eugene Louw diving over from close range.

 

Dronfield 's defeat by Ashby who had only just missed out on promotion by one place for the last two seasons should be put into perspective. It is doubtful that Dronfield will  play such an impressive league side again this season. Next week they will need to re-group  for their away visit to Buxton